Ali on the Run Show

"Everyone talks about the roar on first avenue. Mine was trying to dodge the roar of the cleaning trucks!" Last year, 55-year-old Janelle Hartman became a marathoner. After running more than 100 races and volunteering at just as many, Janelle decided that 2018 was the year she would run the TCS New York City Marathon. And on this episode, she talks about what it's like to be the very last finisher of the marathon: Janelle was the final finisher at the 2018 New York City Marathon. She paints a picture about what it was like running the marathon in the dark, being moved onto the city sidewalks, without that famous roar of screaming fans on First Avenue. And she talks about why runners shouldn't be afraid of coming in last, and why it should be celebrated. She opens up about the times in her own life when she let her fears, worries, and concerns hold her back from pursuing her dreams, and shares what it's like on the other side of success. When Janelle isn't running or volunteering, she works as a psychotherapist in a nursing home. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How it felt to be the final finisher of the 2018 TCS New York City Marathon (4:20) Janelle recaps her 2018 race (7:10) Janelle's message to runners who don't want to sign up for races because they're "afraid of coming in last" (20:30) On receiving the 2018 Joe Kleinerman Award from New York Road Runners (27:00) Janelle talks about how she started running at 49, her inspiration, and her decision to run a marathon at 55 (31:40) What does Janelle wish more runners understood about what it takes to make a race happen? (50:00) Janelle talks about her career in psychiatry (54:00) What we mention on this episode: Peter Ciaccia on Episode 96 of the Ali on the Run Show Project Finish The Galloway Method Run, Fat Boy, Run Follow Janelle: Instagram @janhart26 Twitter @janhart26 Strava Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 illness is just a small part of me. It's not all of me. I'm still able to be a mom. And I haven't allowed my disease to rob me of that. It just gives me strength. It almost makes me feel like a badass some days! It's not always pretty, but for the most part, I'm doing what I want to do with my life despite my illness." Natalie Hayden was diagnosed with Crohn's disease right after graduating college. She was on track to pursue her dream job as a television anchor, but her inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosis tried to derail that. After several hospitalizations and a series of bowel obstructions, Natalie underwent major surgery to remove 18 inches from her intestines. But despite the disease's valiant efforts to keep Natalie down, she has persevered. She went on to become a TV news anchor, just as she'd always dreamed, and she's a mother to two healthy children. Today, Natalie is a freelance, work-from-home mom who chronicles her life with Crohn's disease at Lights, Camera, Crohn's: An Unobstructed View. This is an honest conversation about what it looks like when you have a chronic illness and want to become a mom, and what concerns arose for both Natalie and me in our respective journeys. Thank you to the American Gastroenterological Association's IBD Parenthood Project for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! If you or someone you know has inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, go to ibdparenthoodproject.org for support on your journey to and through parenthood. What you'll get on this episode: Natalie talks about her Crohn's diagnosis (4:30) Natalie talks about moving away from home and pursuing her dream job — with Crohn's as her sidekick (11:00) How having a chronic illness has affected Natalie's relationships and marriage (16:50) Natalie talks about her history with bowel obstructions, and her bowel resection surgery (23:50) Natalie talks about her decision to have children, and her concerns about how Crohn's may affect her ability to get pregnant, have a baby, and be a mom (37:20) To breastfeed or not to breastfeed with a chronic illness? Natalie talks about trying to make the decision that was right for her and her family (45:20) Follow Natalie: Instagram @natalieannhayden Twitter @nataliesparacio Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"They don't expect a group to be there. And any runner deserves that incredible finish, no matter if it took two hours or if it's taken 12. It's not so much the time that needs to be celebrated in this case, it's the passion and the drive and the motivation behind each runner's story." In 2015, Stephanie Pennington had just completed her first New York City Marathon. After finishing, she went out to celebrate — but before heading back home, she wanted to swing back through Central Park to see if anything was still happening. It was 7:45 PM, and Stephanie saw runners still making their way to the iconic finish line. She was inspired — and she didn't want any of those runners to ever finish 26.2 miles without a celebration. That's how Project Finish was born. (This video is a must-watch.) Now, every year at the TCS New York City Marathon finish line, Stephanie encourages people to join her and her wildly enthusiastic, growing group of supporters to cheer at the finish line until the very last runner comes through. On this episode, Stephanie — who is a fashion and technical designer for QVC — shares some inspiring finish line stories, and talks about her hopes and dreams for Project Finish this year. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: What inspired Stephanie to start Project Finish (3:30) What is the Project Finish vibe like? (12:15) Stephanie's favorite Project Finish memories from over the years (15:50) Why YOU should show up for Project Finish at this year's TCS New York City Marathon (27:10) Stephanie shares her running story (34:10) All about Stephanie's job (47:15) What we mention on this episode: Project Finish Project Finish in the New York Times New York Road Runners Virtual Training Programs Follow Stephanie: Instagram @stephanie_pennington Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 kindness can solve a lot of problems." Last year, Carly Gill made a goal to qualify for the Olympic Trials in the marathon. She ran CIM in December 2018 — and came up just two minutes short of her goal. So this year, Carly was ready to get stronger, faster, and fitter, and again chase down an OTQ time of 2:45 or faster. On this episode, Carly talks about her dream come true: running a 2:42 at the Berlin Marathon, and officially qualifying to run the Olympic Marathon Trials in Atlanta in February 2020. She talks about the mental side of training and racing, and shares her take on expectations, disappointment, and how to emotionally recover after a race. Carly is a freelance TV producer living in Brooklyn, NY. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Carly reflects on running an Olympic Trials qualifying time at the Berlin Marathon (2:45) On running most of the race surrounded by men (23:00) Carly revisits the heartbreaks on the way to her 2:42 marathon, and talks about putting her goals out there publicly (29:00) How Carly went from running a 6:14 mile to running 26.2 of them at 6:10 pace (35:00) A look at Carly's Berlin training cycle, and how it was different than past marathon training cycles (42:40) Carly talks about joining a team — or not joining a team (52:00) Carly talks about life as a freelance television producer (59:30) Follow Carly Instagram @carlysheree Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 way that I'm training is good for my soul right now." Carrie Tollefson is a professional middle-distance runner and Olympian turned mom of three, broadcaster, race analyst, podcast host, running camp director, and so much more. Most recently, the former 1500-meter specialist added another impressive title to her list: 2:51 marathoner. Six years ago, Carrie was four months postpartum and ran her first marathon in an astonishing time of 3:02. She made a goal to someday run a sub-3:00 marathon, and this was her year. On this episode, the Minnesota native and host of C Tolle Run talks about her somewhat unconventional training methods, why this was the time to pursue her marathon dreams, and what it meant to her to race in a Brave Like Gabe singlet. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring this episode of Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: Carrie breaks down her 2:51 at the Twin Cities Marathon, and shares why she decided to run a marathon this year (5:35) Why Carrie says her race was "surprising" to her (12:00) What it meant to Carrie to run in a Brave Like Gabe singlet (18:15) Where does Carrie see herself in the sport right now? And where does she want to be and go? (28:30) What a day in Carrie's life looks like, and when she gets her runs in (38:45) How Carrie got into broadcasting (44:30) Carrie revists her list of goals from two years ago! (1:04:04) What we mention on this episode: Wellbeats Brave Like Gabe Foundation Follow Carrie: Instagram @carrie_tollefson Twitter @carrietollefson Facebook Podcast & Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 not one to usually show too much emotion crossing a finish line, but that last 100 to 200 meters, I thought about my children, my family, and all the hard work I did to put into this race that I had a lot of people doubt or question. It was just this moment of, 'This is why I do what I do.'" Roberta Groner just returned from Qatar, where she was one of three women representing the United States at the marathon world championships. But Roberta isn't a full-time professional athlete: She's a full-time nurse, a 41-year-old single mom of three, and a 2:29 marathoner. (She's one of only three U.S. women over 40 to have broken 2:30 in the marathon.) Roberta's story is pretty remarkable and wildly impressive. On this episode, she recounts her race in Doha — it was 90 degrees and 73 percent humidity, and the race started at midnight — where she finished sixth overall and was the first American finisher. She talks about why she chose to go to world championships when she was very aware of the grueling conditions that awaited her, and she talks about how she's gotten faster and stronger over the years. Roberta isn't slowing down on the roads or in life: She'll race the TCS New York City Marathon in just a few weeks, and then she'll compete at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Atlanta in February 2020. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Roberta breaks down the world championships marathon in Doha, including the heat and how she prepped for it, her goals, and her strategy (3:15) How Roberta is feeling now, and what her training will look like between now and the New York City Marathon in a few weeks (22:25) Roberta's thoughts on sponsorship (32:30) Roberta shares her running story, including why she took a long break — and what brought her back (37:30) How Roberta has chipped away at her marathon time over the years (39:50) What Roberta is doing to ensure her longevity in the sport, and when she fits running into her busy life (43:40) What we mention on this episode: New York Athletic Club Truly Faster as a Master: Roberta Groner, 41, Makes U.S. World Championships Marathon Team, via Erin Strout for Women's Running Follow Roberta: Instagram @bad_boys104 Twitter @marathongirl245 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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!

"That's running — all of us are having major fails along the way! That's what keeps bringing us back. We're chasing that perfect race and that perfect day." This past weekend, Janae Baron — Hungry Runner Girl — ran a 2:49 at the St. George Marathon. It was a 9 minute 55 second personal best time at the distance. It took Janae nine years to go sub-3:00 in the marathon. Last year, she ran a 2:59 — and thought she was good, done, and satisfied. Her potential, she thought, had been reached. But then: a 2:49, just one year later. On this episode, Janae recaps this breakthrough race, sharing every detail of the weekend, including what it was like being part of the elite start (and getting her own fuel and hydration bottles on the course!). She talks about how, exactly, she's gotten faster, and about joining a team and what that looks like. (She now trains with a group of "big dreamers," she told me.) Janae also opens up about what it's like racing when you're a public-facing person and have thousands of people following along: Does that add pressure, motivation, or both? Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring this episode of Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: Recapping Janae's 2:49 race at the St. George Marathon (4:00) Does being a public person affect Janae on race day? (35:30) How Janae went from a 2:59 to a 2:49, and what it's been like running and training with a team (42:00) Janae's experience experimenting with carb depletion before her race (55:00) What it means to Janae to be stubborn about her goals (59:20) What's next for Janae? (1:01:00) Janae's messages to marathoners in all stages this season (1:03:50) What we mention on this episode: Janae Baron on Episode 89 of the Ali on the Run Show Janae Baron on Episode 50 of the Ali on the Run Show St. George Marathon Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor How Bad Do You Want It? by Matt Fitzgerald Follow Janae: Instagram @hungryrunnergirl Facebook Twitter @hungryrunnergrl Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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!

"Gabe was all about trying her best, whereas I was more about striving for perfection. And thankfully, I had Gabe in my life to show me what that really meant — trying your best — and why that was so much better than striving for perfection." Ladia Albertson-Junkans is a collegiate cross-country runner turned ultramarathoner. Most recently, Ladia ran the Western States 100, and followed that up by running the Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Timberline Trail around Mount Hood. Ladia is also well known in the running community as Gabe Grunewald's best friend. On this poignant episode, Ladia beautifully shares stories about Gabe, who passed away this summer. She talks about their friendship, including the sweet story of how they met, and opens up about being by Gabe's side during her final days. She talks about what it means to be brave, the role running played in her grieving process, and about learning how to say goodbye. Ladia also talks about how important it was to Gabe to make sure the Brave Like Gabe Foundation kept running and inspiring fellow cancer patients. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: On running the Fastest Known Time on the Timberline Trail around Mount Hood, including how Ladia felt Gabe's presence before and during the run (6:00) On running Western States in June (19:40) When does Ladia fit running into her busy life? (26:20) How Ladia and Gabe met, and why Gabe wouldn't let Ladia quit running after college (27:30) Ladia opens up about what Gabe's last few weeks were like, and shares a few stories about Gabe that speak to her remarkable character (33:45) Ladia talks about that visit from Chip and Joanna Gaines (41:30) Did Gabe know the impact she had on the world? (46:00) What does it mean to live #BraveLikeGabe? (55:30) What we mention on this episode: Gabe Grunewald on Episode 62 of the Ali on the Run Show Brave Like Gabe Foundation Follow Ladia: Instagram @ladiahallie Twitter @ladiahallie Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 can race as many 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons as you'd like, but that suffering that's at the end of the marathon is a totally different experience." —Greg McMillan On the final episode in the You Can Run a Marathon series, experts Greg McMillan and Dr. Cathy Yeckel are on hand to answer dozens of listener questions about training, race day, nutrition, and more. Greg McMillan is the founder of McMillan Running, where he is also the head coach, exercise physiologist, and 2:31 marathoner. Dr. Yeckel, also a multiple-time marathoner, is a human metabolism researcher and assistance clinical professor at the Yale School of Public Health. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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!

"One run or two runs, or even a handful of runs, in the grand scheme of things isn't really going to make that much of a difference. So I try not to get too stressed out about it." You may know Megan Harrington (formerly Kretz) as one of the OG running bloggers: She is the woman behind the popular "Runner's Kitchen" blog. In 2008, Megan had just graduated from Wesleyan University and moved to New York City to pursue her writing dreams. She joined the Central Park Track Club — and Twitter! — and started blogging about her training, in addition to working a slew of different jobs, including writing, editing, and working at a law firm. Today, Megan is a mom of two (to Teddy, 3, and Evelyn, 13 months) living in upstate New York with her husband, Brian. She works several part-time jobs: She's a freelance writer, social media manager for a local newspaper, and peer breastfeeding counselor for the county WIC program. On this episode, Megan talks about her recent postpartum half-marathon PR, when she fits marathon training into her busy life, and how running has changed for her since becoming a mom. Megan will be running the Chicago Marathon in two weeks. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Megan talks about running a big postpartum half-marathon PR, and her decision to hire a coach at this point in her life (3:45) How Megan found and fell in love with running (8:00) On having a running blog back in the glory days of blogging, and how the running industry has changed over the past decade (16:20) Megan talks about her career evolution (20:30) How running has changed for Megan since becoming a mom (24:40) All about being a breastfeeding educator for the local WIC program (36:15) Megan's advice to newly postpartum women who are eager to get back on the run (42:25) Megan's Chicago Marathon plans, goals, hopes, and dreams (46:00) What we mention on this episode: Kelly Hogan on Episode 123 of the Ali on the Run Show Central Park Track Club New York Road Runners Follow Megan: Instagram @meganireneh Twitter @runnerskitchen Facebook Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 marathon is a metaphor for life. It's about patience, and you get out of it what you put in it." This is a very special episode of the You Can Run a Marathon series, because it was recorded live in front of a fantastic audience at Finish Line Physical Therapy in New York City. Meb Keflezighi is the only person to ever win the New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon, and Olympic silver medal. Runner's World named him The Most Influential Person in Running, and he's the author of several books, including Meb for Mortals and 26 Marathons. On this episode, Meb reflects on his career on the run, talks about what he's learned about life and running and how they intersect, and shares whether there's any chance we might see him at the start line of the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials in February. He also shares the story of getting a congratulatory phone call from President Obama after winning the 2014 Boston Marathon, and dining with the Obamas a few weeks later. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: What does it mean to Meb to "run to win?" And how does he keep going when the race is getting tough? (5:30) Meb's New York City Marathon-specific advice (13:25) What are the keys to being able to run for life? (17:50) Why the 2013 New York City Marathon was so special for local runner Mike Cassidy, who got to finish with Meb (22:00) Why the marathon is a metaphor for life (26:20) All about that post-Boston-win call from President Obama (28:30) Why the marathon for Meb? (35:20) On pre-race nerves and anxiety, mental training, and visualization (46:10) What race week looks like for Meb (53:30) Is there any chance we might see Meb at the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials?! (55:30) Follow Meb: Instagram @runmeb Twitter @runmeb Facebook Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 are sitting on an idea, a dream, a plan, the longer you wait to execute on it, the sooner someone else will. So stop waiting, stop procrastinating. Do as I say, not as I've done!" It's solo episode time! On this episode, I'm talking all about what goes on behind the scenes of the Ali on the Run Show, answering listener questions about getting started, choosing guests, recording, editing, working with sponsors, pay days, and more. I also talk about the episodes I've recorded but never aired — and why — and share a few never-before-told stories. Next week it's back to regularly exciting running-related programming. Until then, I hope you enjoy this long-winded peek behind the microphone. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Getting started (2:10) All about equipment (12:00) How I prep for episodes (15:00) On choosing guests and having conversations (21:50) All about recording and editing (48:00) Sponsor stuff (1:01:40) And more random questions about podcasting and the Ali on the Run Show (1:08:10) What we mention on this episode: Blue Snowball microphone Blue Yeti microphone Audacity Libsyn hosting ShePodcasts Facebook Group Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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!

At about mile 9, I was in the porta-potty, wishing and praying that somebody would pick it up. I was like, 'If I stay here long enough, somebody will pick up the porta-potty. I just want to disappear in here.' That's how terrible I felt."" At 41 years old, Dawn Grunnagle is proof that you can, in fact, keep getting faster with age. Dawn is a Nike-sponsored professional 1500-meter runner turned master's marathoner. (Before going pro, she spent 10 years teaching third and fourth graders. Aw!) She has qualified for the Olympic Trials three times: first in 2012 in the 1500, and then in 2016 and 2020 in the marathon. Last year, she ran a 2:34 personal best time — but the road to OTQ glory hasn't been easy or pretty for Dawn. On this episode, she talks about her earliest marathon days, which involved a lot of porta-potties and puking. (Relatable!) She talks about how she chipped away at her time over the years, going from a 2:49 to a 2:34, and talks about her adventures in fueling. (Key takeaway: Just because it works for someone you admire doesn't mean it will work for you!) Dawn is currently training for the 2019 Berlin Marathon. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: How Dawn got into the marathon distance — and why she stuck with it despite getting off to a rough start (2:00) What Dawn considers her breakthrough race (17:50) How Dawn went from a 2:49 marathon to a 2:34, and what her marathon training looks like (19:00) What Dawn's recovery looks like (26:50) What race week is like for Dawn (33:00) What Dawn's goals are for the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials (39:30) Follow Dawn: Instagram @dawngrunnagle Twitter @dawngrunnagle Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 decided, 'OK, I'm gonna run in the Trials and then we'll hopefully get pregnant right away, and then I'll maybe even be able to run a fall marathon the next year!' And…it didn't happen like that." You probably know Amanda Nurse by her Instagram moniker: Amanda Runs Boston. And she sure does. Amanda is a 20-time marathoner and two-time Olympic Trials qualifier in the marathon. She's a clinical social worker turned adidas-sponsored runner and coach who has taken her marathon time from 3:26 to a very impressive 2:40. On this episode, Amanda talks about her road to elite distance running, her decision to make a major career change, and her adventures in motherhood. She opens up about her "plans" to get pregnant and what that means for a professional runner, and shares what actually happened on her road to having Riley, her now two-year-old son. It's an honest, real-talk-filled conversation about the realities of new motherhood. (And fun fact: Amanda is coached by former Ali on the Run Show guest Kaitlin Goodman! Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Did Amanda always want to be a runner? Plus, the time Joan Benoit Samuelson called Amanda a sandbagger (2:50) How Amanda met her husband at a local 5K (13:00) Amanda reflects on the first time she qualified for the Olympic Trials in the marathon, and what running the Trials was like (22:00) How Amanda has improved her mental strength (30:30) On deciding to have a baby, and the surprising amount of time it took to get pregnant (34:40) How Amanda felt throughout her pregnancy, and her adventures in postpartum running (45:00) On postpartum emotions, depression, and more (54:10) What Amanda wishes she had known as a new runner (1:02:35) What we mention on this episode: Beach to Beacon Dana-Farber Cancer Institute How Bad Do You Want It by Matt Fitzgerald Barre3 Kara Goucher on Episode 43 of the Ali on the Run Show Molly Millwood on Episode 155 of the Ali on the Run Show Amanda's postpartum post To Have and To Hold by Dr. Molly Millwood Follow Amanda: Instagram @amandarunsboston Twitter @amandarunsbos Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 deserve to be on that starting line. Believe in yourself and your training." Molly Bookmyer is a 2:44 marathoner who recently finished third in the U.S. 25K championships. But the road to an Olympic Trials qualifying time hasn't been easy. On this episode, Molly shares her inspiring story of resilience and positivity. In 2013, Molly's doctors found a brain tumor and needed to perform brain surgery to remove it. Then, she suffered a seizure while running on the treadmill, and had to have a second brain surgery. After recovering, getting healthy, and getting back on the run, Molly and her now-husband got married. But one week after returning from their honeymoon, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Molly is a force to be reckoned with, on the run and beyond. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: Molly's inspiring story (2:05) On leaning into running during difficult times (8:50) On grieving an injury and healing emotionally (12:15) What Molly's work day looks like right now (15:20) Why the marathon? Plus, what Molly's first marathon training cycle and race looked like (16:10) How Molly fuels for marathon training and racing (22:00) When Molly realized she had the potential to run an Olympic Trials qualifying time in the marathon (26:00) On training in Ohio's ever-changing weather (34:10) What race week looks like for Molly (35:10) Follow Molly: Instagram @mollybookie Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"Pressure is a privilege." —Nikki Hiltz Allie Ostrander and Nikki Hiltz are both having huge breakthrough years on the run. Allie, who recently signed with Brooks Running, and Nikki, who is in her second year as a pro athlete for adidas, joined me for a live show at New York Road Runners's second annual RunnerCon event the day before the New Balance Fifth Avenue Mile to talk racing, big dreams, goals, and activism. Neither Allie nor Nikki had ever run Fifth Avenue before, so it was fun talking to them on the eve of the big race. (Nikki ended up running strong and placing fourth!) What we mention on this episode: Emma Coburn and Jenny Simpson on Episode 96 of the Ali on the Run Show Allie Ostrander on Episode 162 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Nikki: Instagram @nikkihiltz Follow Allie: Instagram @allie_ostrander Twitter @allie_ostrander Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"At this level, everyone works really hard. You can't just say, 'Oh, she just works the hardest.' All the elite athletes on that starting line, everyone has their own challenges in their build up and had to overcome those. Everyone has their own story." Emily Sisson just might be having the best year of her life. The professional runner for New Balance kicked off her year by running a 1:07 at the Houston Half Marathon — coming just five seconds short of the American record. In April, Emily made her marathon debut at the London Marathon, where she ran a 2:23, finishing in sixth place and becoming the seventh-fastest U.S. woman ever at the marathon distance. It was also the second-fastest marathon debut by an American woman. This summer, Emily competed in the 10,000 meters at USA Track & Field Nationals, and landed a spot on the U.S. world team. She'll head to Doha later this month to represent the United States. On this episode, Emily reflects on her breakout year and talks about what's next, including where her head is at leading up to the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials in February. She talks about what training at altitude is really like and what her training looks like right now, and she shares the game-changing marathon advice she got from Meb Keflezighi, Des Linden, and training partner Molly Huddle. Thank you to the New York Road Runners Virtual Halfway There 13.1M for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE to register (it's free!) and complete your 13.1-mile run between September 7 and October 13. Everybody's doing it! What you'll get on this episode: How was Emily's run today? (3:00) What is training at altitude really like? (4:20) All about Emily's relationship with her husband and part-time pacer (10:30) Emily reflects on the highlights of her year on the run (14:30) What advice did training partner Molly Huddle give Emily before running London? (19:30) Why Emily chose not to run this year's NYRR New York Mini 10K, and how she came back to land a spot on the U.S. 10,000m team (21:50) Is there pressure surrounding the 2020 Olympic Trials? Plus, what it's like being an American female distance runner right now (28:00) How Emily and Molly became friends and training partners (38:10) What Emily's diet looks like (42:20) What we mention on this episode: Molly Huddle on Episode 66 of the Ali on the Run Show Molly Huddle on Episode 51 of the Ali on the Run Show Amy Cragg on Episode 97 of the Ali on the Run Show Des Linden on Episode 100 of the Ali on the Run Show Des Linden on Episode 64 of the Ali on the Run Show Maurten The Heart's Invisible Furies Follow Emily: Instagram @em_sisson_ Twitter @em_sisson Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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!

"When I started running, people laughed at me. But it was a challenge I needed to do for myself." Dr. Shelby Harris is a clinical psychologist and clinical associate professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the neurology and psychiatry departments. She specializes in anxiety, depression, and treating sleep disorders, and is the author of The Women's Guide to Overcoming Insomnia. What does that have to do with running? On this episode, Dr. Harris shares how treating her insomnia-and-sleep-apnea-riddled patients led her to marathon running. She's now a 13-time marathoner who has taken her time from 5:19 to 3:45, and she's currently training for the 2019 Chicago Marathon, where she hopes to run a Boston Qualifying time. Dr. Harris shares her story of being seconds away from crossing the Boston Marathon finish line in 2013 when the second bomb went off, and talks about losing hearing in her left ear as a result of the blast. She also talks about using exposure therapy as a way to get back to running and racing. Plus, she answers your sleep questions! We received more than 200 questions from listeners (wow!), and Dr. Harris dishes out loads of advice, from how to deal with insomnia to how sleep impacts running and so much more. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How Shelby got into the sleep field — and found running along the way (5:10) How much sleep should we all be getting, realistically? (8:50) On having phones in the bedroom (14:00) How sleep impacts running (19:35) How Shelby shaved nearly 90 minutes off her marathon time (21:50) Shelby's 2013 Boston Marathon story (24:10) Shelby answers listener questions about sleep (34:00) What we mention on this episode: Montefiore Sleep Disorders Center Team in Training Jen Bigham on Episode 151 of the Ali on the Run Show Jack Daniels Run S.M.A.R.T. Program Wake Up Narcolepsy New York Road Runners Newport Marathon Follow Shelby: Instagram @sleepdocshelby Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 just have to show up. And I showed up." Not too long ago, Mo Alkhawaldeh was a casual smoker. Today, he's a 2:23 marathoner with his sights set on representing his home country of Jordan in the 2020 Olympic Games. But although Mo is one of the top-ranked runners in the Middle East and Africa, he's not a full-time runner: He works full-time at Princeton University, where he's also the head coach of the Princeton Running Club. He gets his training done before and after work — elite marathoners, they're just like us! In 2015, Runner's World named Mo one of the 50 most influential people in running. Mo, who is coached by Ryan Hall, is currently training for the Berlin Marathon, where he hopes to run a 2:18. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: Why running, and why the marathon for Mo (2:30) The sacrifices that come with training at a high — but not professional — level (11:30) How Mo stays healthy on the run (18:10) A day in Mo's diet (19:50) What race week looks like for Mo (25:00) Follow Mo: Instagram @mo_alkhawaldeh Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 was in survival mode. What can I do to pay our rent? What can I do to put food on the table?" When Rachel Wyman was five months postpartum with her third child, she opened her first bakery: Montclair Bread Company. Then, when the bakery hit 4,000 Facebook likes, Rachel decided she should do something to celebrate the social media milestone. Despite not being a runner and never having run a race herself, she hosted a low-key 4K race that has since grown to become New Jersey's hardest-to-get-into annual 5K. And Rachel, of course, has become a runner and triathlete along the way. Today, Montclair Bread Company is the town's go-to destination for runners, and is home to the 2,000-member Fueled by Doughnuts run club. On this episode, Rachel, a mom of three, talks about what it was like working 80-hour weeks while getting her MBA and being the sole income provider for her family of five. (Her final project for her master's degree was a business plan for a bakery — which she then made into a reality. A+ for Rachel!) She talks about the accident that shattered her pelvis and changed her life, the power of community, and the importance of following your passions and being open to where life takes you. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! Listen on Apple Podcasts I Spotify I SoundCloud I Overcast I Stitcher I Google Play EMBED EPISODE HERE What you'll get on this episode: The story behind the Fueled by Doughnuts 5K, and how it grew to something huge and amazing (4:45) How Rachel started the Fueled by Doughnuts run club, and grew it to more than 2,000 members (18:50) On being naturally business-minded (31:10) What it feels like walking into her bakery every day (52:50) What it was like being on — and winning! — Food Network's Doughnut Showdown (55:00) The accident that shattered Rachel's pelvis and changed her life (57:50) What we mention on this episode: Fueled by Doughnuts 5K Fueled by Doughnuts Run Club Sleepy Hollow Half Marathon Wineglass Marathon Bread Alone "Meet the Club that Runs for Doughnuts" via Runner's World Ironman Lake Placid Mohawk Hudson Marathon Follow Rachel: Instagram @rachelrwyman Blog Montclair Bread Company Fueled by Doughnuts Run Club Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Twitter @aliontherun1 Facebook 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 never picture myself at the start or during the race or what I'm doing during the race. I just picture myself finishing. That's all I can see." Chirine Njeim is a four-time Olympian — but the four times she's represented her home country of Lebanon haven't all been on the run. Chirine is a former alpine ski racer turned marathon runner. She competed at the Winter Olympics three times, and in 2016 made her Summer Olympics debut in the marathon. Today, Chirine is a 12-time marathoner who has taken her time from 3:07 to 2:39. Chirine lives in Chicago, where she works full-time and trains with the Second City Track Club. On this episode, she shares how a fun run at the Shamrock Shuffle 8K changed her life, and what her training looks like right now as she gears up for the 2019 Chicago Marathon. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: How Chirine got into skiing and running (2:15) How Chirine got faster (9:30) What Chirine's marathon training looks like (13:50) What Chirine's diet is like (21:30) A look at what a typical race week is like for Chirine (26:45) Chirine's rough races (34:30) Follow Chirine: Instagram @chirine.njeim Twitter @cheron33 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 was letting life pass me by. I had just gone through all of this insanity, and I wasn't really a participant in my own life. How could I let that happen?" I first met Carrie Kreiswirth in 2011, when a marketing campaign for a local running store brought us together. Several years later, I saw a photo of Carrie on Facebook. She was bald. What had I missed? In the time since we met, Carrie had tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation — the one that raises the probability of developing breast and ovarian cancer — and was diagnosed with stage one triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma. Breast cancer. She underwent chemotherapy and breast reconstruction surgery. She went through the process of having her eggs frozen. And then, the self-proclaimed "non-runner" ran the New York City Marathon. This is a powerful, emotional, and inspirational episode. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your Aeropex wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Carrie shares her breast cancer story, starting from diagnosis (4:50) What chemotherapy — and losing her hair — was like, and the aftermath (23:40) How Carrie took back control of her life (32:40) How Carrie celebrated five years since her cancer diagnosis (42:45) Carrie's message to women facing a scary diagnosis or life change (55:45) What we mention on this episode: Run for the Rabbit Care+Wear Center for Restorative Breast Surgery First Descents Coach Cane The Breasties Follow Carrie: Instagram @ckreiswirth Twitter @ckreiswirth Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 realized, no one on the sidelines is judging me as harshly as I'm judging myself." Welcome to the first episode in the seven-part "You Can Run a Marathon" series, all about getting you through training and to the start line of your first or next 26.2-mile race. Whether you're training for your first, your fastest, or your funnest, we're here to help you reach your goals. Who's "we?" On this series, I'll be talking with runners about their training and races, as well as experts who can answer all of your questions about training, fueling, and just how many 20-mile runs you should be doing before you start to taper. The series kicks off with Olympian Alexi Pappas. Alexi is a middle-distance runner turned marathoner. She made her 26.2-mile debut at the 2018 Chicago Marathon, and on this episode, she's honest about how humbling this distance is for runners of all levels. She talks about her own fueling strategies, what she'll do differently leading up to her next race, and what advice she's received from the legendary Deena Kastor. Thank you to Generation UCAN for sponsoring the You Can Run a Marathon series on the Ali on the Run Show! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. (First-time buyers, check out the UCAN Run Starter Pack here, and get 50 percent off.) What you'll get on this episode: Why Alexi wanted to give the marathon a shot, and how she feels about owning the "marathoner" title (2:20) What made Alexi's first marathon "harder than it looks" (5:50) Goal setting as a first-time marathoner (9:30) On running and racing with Deena Kastor (14:30) How Alexi felt when she finished her first marathon (17:30) How and when Alexi decided to run a marathon (20:20) What goes into Alexi's marathon training plan (24:20) On fueling and nutrition (33:25) What is Alexi thinking about when she's racing? (40:50) Follow Alexi: Instagram @alexipappas Twitter @alexipappas Facebook Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 still really unreal to me that I get paid to run. Running is something that I would do anyway. It's not a job, it's just a good time!" It's been a big summer for Allie Ostrander. The Alaska native graduated from Boise State University, signed her first professional running contract with Brooks Running, and made her pro debut at USA Track & Field Nationals, where she finished fourth in the 3000m steeplechase, landing her a spot on the U.S. team headed to world championships in Doha next month. On this episode, Allie talks about the process of going pro, how she became a steeplechaser, what her first pro race was like, and what's next. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Allie recaps her fourth-place finish at USATF Nationals (3:00) What Allie's training will look like between now and the world championships in Doha in September (7:30) Allie's decision to go pro, and why she chose to sign with Brooks Running (9:20) Allie talks about her life on the trails (17:00) What the transition from college to pro life has been like so far, and what Allie is most looking forward to with her new pro lifestyle (19:20) Allie reflects on her road to going pro (26:00) On that viral Instagram post (29:40) Why the steeplechase? (38:00) What we mention on this episode: Emma Coburn on Episode 60 of the Ali on the Run Show Pan American Games NYRR Fifth Avenue Mile Allie's viral Instagram post Follow Allie: Instagram @allie_ostrander Twitter @allie_ostrander Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 an entrepreneur, just like an athlete, you have to be almost psychotically optimistic. You have to believe, 'We can do this, we can make it back.' You have to have that belief because there's so much headwind." Husband-and-wife team Lauren Fleshman and Jesse Thomas are the co-founders of Picky Bars and hosts of the Work, Play, Love podcast. Lauren is a former professional middle-distance and marathon runner who spent 13 years competing and is now a coach for Little Wing Athletics, and Jesse is a professional triathlete. On this episode, they get "really real" about parenthood (they have two children, Jude and Zadie) and the realities of trying to grow a business and a family simultaneously. They talk about resentment, balance, entrepreneurship, work challenges, and "the dark days." And hey, Picky Bars are awesome! Click here and use code ONTHERUN for 30 percent off your order, plus an extra 30 percent off your first delivery of the Picky Club! Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Why Jesse is having an identity crisis right now (4:30) On being able to laugh through the hard moments of parenting (12:40) On resentment (20:00) Lauren and Jesse share their take on the idea of balance (22:50) On bringing home work stress when you're an entrepreneur (28:40) What Jesse remembers about the earliest weeks and months after becoming a dad (39:45) On deciding to have a second child, and how Lauren and Jesse's marriage changed after having children (48:00) Lauren and Jesse answer a few listener questions (1:05:35) What we mention on this episode: Lauren on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Challenge Roth Range by David Epstein Car Talk Dear Sugars Mel Lawrence Follow Lauren: Instagram @fleshmanflyer Twitter @laurenfleshman Facebook Work, Play, Love podcast Strava Follow Jesse: Instagram @jessemthomas Twitter @jessemthomas Work, Play, Love podcast Strava Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 didn't really have the credentials to back up what I wanted to do. I just had a dream and a lot of passion and determination." If you don't already know it, remember the name Kaitlin Goodman. Kaitlin is a professional runner for the Boston Athletic Association and a run coach with a master's degree in public health. She's fast — and multifaceted. Kaitlin, who lives in Providence, RI, and trains in Boston, is a four-time Olympic Trials qualifier: She's qualified in the 5,000 meters, the 10,000 meters, and the marathon. (She runs a 2:32 marathon.) And although it's been a lifelong dream to become a professional runner, it hasn't all been smooth sailing and speedy running along the way. Kaitlin suffered a brutal injury while training for last year's New York City Marathon, and she eagerly opens up about what that physical and mental recovery process looked like. She talks about making goals, and what happens when you don't hit them, and she shares how she rebounds and grows from disappointing experiences. Kaitlin breaks down what, exactly, it means to be a professional runner, and talks about training alongside Molly Huddle and Emily Sisson. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Kaitlin talks about what it takes to be successful at a medley of distances, including the 5,000 meters, the 10,000 meters, and the marathon (4:15) Was being a professional runner always the plan? Plus, the good, bad, and ugly of having a dad as a running coach (5:30) What does it mean to try and go pro as a runner? (10:50, and again at 37:00) The road to the 2016 Trials, and how race day went for Kaitlin (18:40) How Kaitlin ended up in New England (31:20) The brutal injury that sidelined Kaitlin while training for the 2018 TCS New York City Marathon (43:00) What does it mean to run joyfully? (56:00) What we mention on this episode: Sara Hall on Episode 144 of the Ali on the Run Show Peninsula Distance Club Dena Evans Steph Bruce on Episode 104 of the Ali on the Run Show Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Falmouth Road Race Follow Kaitlin: Instagram @runnerkg Twitter @runnerkg RunningJoyfully.com Strava Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"When you focus on yourself, you get the best results." Mirinda "Rinny" Carfrae is a professional triathlete and three-time Ironman World Champion. On this episode, Rinny talks about her road to swim-bike-run domination, and how she went from a scrappy basketball player to the fastest woman in Kona. Rinny — who is from Brisbane, Australia, but now lives and trains in Boulder, CO — is a podium staple at both the Ironman and the Half-Ironman distance. She's also a mom to two-year-old Isabelle, and she's very candid about what it's like deciding to have a baby as a professional athlete. She talks about how her sponsors reacted — and what their support looked like — when she announced her pregnancy, and shares how she managed to train for an Ironman while breastfeeding. She talks about pre-race nerves, whether she'd ever ditch the swim and the bike to race a road marathon, and the time she overcame a 14-minute deficit off the bike to land the win in Kona. And of course, Rinny shares her big goals for 2019. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Rinny recaps her very successful month of 70.3 racing (2:40) Rinny's road to success, from basketball to Kona domination (8:20) What it was like competing in Kona for the first time (15:45) Why Rinny says having a baby helped her become a better cyclist (23:20) All about Rinny's at-home "Pain Cave" — including how it helped her breastfeed while training (24:15) On making up time on the run during an Ironman or Half Ironman — including the time Rinny overcame a 14-minute deficit to snag the win in Kona (28:00) What being a triathlete really consists of (36:00) Would Rinny ever ditch the swim and the bike in favor of a road marathon? (40:00) How Rinny ended up in Boulder (42:00) How Rinny met her husband, Tim (45:00) Rinny opens up about her decision to have a baby — plus how her sponsors reacted to the news (52:30) On returning to training and competition after having Isabelle (58:00) What we mention on this episode: Siri Lindley Technogym Gwen Jorgensen on Episode 90 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Rinny: Instagram @mirindacarfrae Twitter @mirindacarfrae Facebook The Tim & Rinny Show Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 pushed myself out of my comfort zone and discovered this tremendous strength that I had. It made me realize that so many of us have amazing gifts within us, but we're sometimes scared to take that leap — so we don't even realize what we're capable of." —Beatie Deutsch Beatie Deutsch is a 29-year-old Orthodox Jewish mom of five living in Israel, by way of New Jersey. And she's earned the nickname "Speedy Beatie" for a reason: Despite only picking up running a few years ago, Beatie runs a 2:42 marathon and a 1:17 half marathon. On this episode, she talks about what it's like being the National Marathon Champion of Israel, and breaks down her monumental Tiberias Marathon win, where she not only ran a 2:42, she ran a 27-minute personal best time in the process, negative splitting the race by six minutes. She talks about being an Orthodox Jewish woman and runner in 2019, explaining her race attire (she runs with her elbows, knees, and hair covered), her values, and what it's like looking different from other women on the starting line. Beatie is sponsored by Nike, and her current goal is to qualify to represent Israel in the 2020 Olympic Games in the marathon. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How Beatie became "Speedy Beatie" (3:25) On winning the Tiberias Marathon and running a 27-minute marathon PR in the process (4:15) How Beatie became a runner (12:00) How Beatie went from a 3:25 marathon to a 2:42 (22:00) What it's like to be an Orthodox Jewish runner in 2019 (29:00) What it means to be sponsored by Nike (38:00) Busting common misconceptions about the Orthodox Jewish community (40:20) Beatie's message to runners who think they don't look like everyone else (46:00) What we mention on this episode: Tiberias Marathon Jerusalem Marathon Nike Vaporfly 4% Hamburg Half Marathon Free Solo Follow Beatie: Instagram @marathonmother Twitter @marathonmother1 Facebook Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 wearing these massive pads that are like six inches deep and waddling around the house. I think I thought the first week would be rough. But it was a month out and I'm still rocking these massive pads. I was never told about that." Every week on these Motherhood Mondays episodes, I've asked my guests, "Who's in your village?" I feel so lucky to be able to say that the two women on today's show — Laura Green and Julia Berteletti — are in my village. Laura lives in Boston, and is mom to 10-month-old Jack. She's a part-time physical therapist and the "community boss" for November Project, and is "very creative" about how she gets her work hours in while Jack does a part-time nanny share. Julia lives in Denver, CO, is mom to 8-month-old Max, and works full-time in an office while Max is in daycare. On this episode, we talk like we do every day, sharing perhaps too much about everything from breastfeeding, identity loss, and body image, to giving birth, relationships, emotional labor, and that first postpartum poop. We also talk about schedule-related anxiety, postpartum running, and guilt. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Getting to know Laura (3:00) Getting to know Julia (8:20) Breastfeeding and boob stuff (13:20) How prepared did we feel for the postpartum period? (21:47) Relationship stuff (35:00) On postpartum running and body image (55:00) What we mention on this episode: November Project Laura's childbirth story via Wisconsin Notes Kristin Mallon on Episode 136 of the Ali on the Run Show Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Work, Play, Love with Lauren Fleshman and Jesse Thomas Boston Marathon Brogan Graham Follow Laura: Instagram @lauramcgreen Follow Julia: Instagram @griffeletti Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 sexy, but all the little teeny tiny things add up. Invest in recovery, nutrition, and sleep. That's where you're going to see the big gains — even though it's not as much fun to put on Instagram. You'll see it pay off." Sarah "Mac" Robinson is an elite runner, mom of two, and freelance brand storyteller. On this episode, she gets very candid about how her life — on the run and beyond — has changed since becoming a mom. She opens up about her experience with postpartum depression and anxiety, what life on medication has been like, and the stigmas surrounding postpartum mental health. She also talks about how she landed an Olympic Trials qualifying time in the marathon in 2016, what the road there was like, and what's next in her running life. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Sarah's experience with postpartum anxiety and Zoloft (3:15) Sarah's running story — the high highs and low lows (20:10) On trying — and trying again and again — to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Trials in the marathon (24:30) On body image as an elite runner, both before and after having kids, and "skinny privilege" (34:10) What Sarah's running looks like these days (37:00) Sarah's career, how she found Oiselle, and what she's up to professionally (42:20) Sarah's messages to moms and to runners working on big goals (51:40) What we mention on this episode: Oiselle Sarah's Instagram post about weaning off Zoloft Stephanie Bruce on Episode 104 of the Ali on the Run Show Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Oiselle Mac Roga short Follow Sarah: Instagram @thatsarahmac Twitter @thatsarahmac Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 fear of the foundation we're standing on having too many cracks in it." Dr. Molly Millwood is a clinical psychologist and licensed psychotherapist specializing in marital therapy and intimate relationships. She's also the author of the just-released book, To Have and To Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, & the Modern Dilemma. On this episode, Dr. Millwood — a mom of two — expands on many of the new-mom-related topics she covers in her brilliant book, including guilt, shame, missing life before baby, marriage after baby, gender roles for new parents, and social media. Dr. Millwood lives in Vermont with her husband and two sons. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: What tends to hold new moms back from going to therapy (8:00) The shame and guilt surrounding new motherhood (13:00) On missing "life before baby" (21:00) Why no one is talking about what their romantic relationships are like after having a baby (25:00) How couples can improve their communication when talking about tough stuff (34:30) On expectations (40:20) How social media affects new moms (44:50) Some of the most common reasons women come to Molly for therapy (48:00) What does a first-time therapy session actually look like? (54:00) Follow Molly: Instagram @molly.millwood.phd Facebook Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 are never going to be the woman you were before, and that's great. Because this woman you are now is so much stronger, more powerful, capable of doing so much more. But you've gotta give her some time and space to heal and figure things out a bit." Hitha Palepu has many titles. She's an entrepreneur and the CEO of Rhosan Pharmaceuticals, the author of the book How to Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip, an angel investor and advisor to women-led and women-focused start-ups, the creator of the blog Hitha on the Go, and the brains behind #5SmartReads on Instagram and in her popular weekly newsletter. She's also a mom to four-year-old Rho and seven-week-old Rhaki. On this episode, Hitha, who lives on Manhattan's Upper West Side, opens up about the realities of motherhood, her decision to have children (it wasn't a given!), and her experience with postpartum depression and antidepressants. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Getting to know Hitha — on the decision to have kids, having help, breastfeeding, and parenting unapologetically and gratefully (1:50) On the transition from one kid to two, and how Hitha is doing right now (23:00) On resentment (27:50) Hitha's experience with postpartum depression, and the breaking point that got her to therapy (33:00) How Hitha "recalibrated her mental state" (42:30) Talking "balance" and identity loss in motherhood (45:40) Hitha's take on mom guilt (52:40) Hitha's message for new moms (56:00) What we mention on this episode: The Motherhood Center Follow Hitha: Instagram @hithapalepu Twitter @hithapalepu Facebook Website Newsletter Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 are struggling, it does not mean that you are failing. It does not mean that you're doing something wrong. It just means that you are coming up against some hurdles, whether they're physical or mental or emotional, and it's important to listen to those and try and understand what's underneath them. But by no means do they imply that you're not going to achieve your goal. You just need to see them as part of the process. Struggle is just as important as the elation and the sense of fulfillment that we all get after a great workout or a PR." David Willey spent 14 years at the helm of Runner's World magazine. But after announcing his departure from the brand in 2017, David went off the grid. On this episode, David's back on the grid, opening up about what made life for the past two years "outlandishly fun, intentionally challenging, unexpectedly hard and depressing, and newly regenerating." David talks about his time at Runner's World — the highs, the lows, and the part of the job that had him ambushing runners on live television during the New York City Marathon — and talks about his take on the brand now. He talks about his old dog and his new dog (we both shed a few tears there), his battle with Lyme Disease, and how he fulfilled his decade-long dream of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How David got the job at Runner's World, and why it was a dream job (3:45) David looks back at his favorite Runner's World covers, stories, and adventures (10:00) Why David left Runner's World after 14 years (18:40) All about David's "Moonshot Marathon" (24:30) Why David says Runner's World readers get so heated online (32:20) What it's like interviewing runners live on the course during the New York City Marathon broadcast (35:20) Does David still read Runner's World? (43:15) David looks back on his time with his dog, Trucha, and his book proposal in the works (45:30) On an unexpected battle with Lyme Disease (56:30) David's message to runners who are struggling right now (1:05:10) What we mention on this episode: Runner's World covers through the years Mary Wittenberg on Episode 98 of the Ali on the Run Show Joe Holder Julia Lucas "A Very Good Dog" — David's editor's letter about his dog, Trucha Camp Canine The Runner's World Show podcast The Human Race podcast The Hive Life podcast Neely Spence Gracey on Episode 42 of the Ali on the Run Show Bayshore Marathon Follow David: Twitter @davidmwilley Send dog photos to [email protected] Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"Everything I thought would happen did not happen." Sashea Lawson is perhaps best known by her social media moniker: "Sassy Fit Girl." Sashea is a mom to 2.5-year-old Skye and three-month-old Marley, and on this episode she talks about what life is like right now as a toddler mom and newborn mom. She talks about why she's been so vocal about making a slow return to fitness after baby number two, and opens up about recovering from two c-sections, her first baby's emotional NICU stay, and the pressure she felt to breastfeed. Sashea, who has eight sisters and two brothers, owns and runs a marketing and entertainment company with her husband, and they live in West Orange, NJ. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Getting to know Sashea (1:30) Did Sashea always know she wanted to be a mom? (8:30) On recovering from two c-sections, and the importance of postpartum recovery (10:15) How prepared did Sashea feel for the postpartum period? (20:30) How Sashea's feeling at three months postpartum (25:40) What Sashea's marriage is like since having kids (30:00) A look at the highest highs and lowest lows of new motherhood, including a scary NICU stay (35:50) Sashea's message to moms in all stages (47:50) What we mention on this episode: Orangetheory Fitness Velcro swaddles Alysia Montaño on Instagram @alysiamontano Follow Sashea: Instagram @sassyfitgirl Twitter @sassyfitgirl Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"Be happy with your life! Run races that are exciting to you. Set goals that are exciting to you. Maybe it's a goal that everyone in the world has. Maybe it's something that no one has. It doesn't matter. Just be true to yourself. If you're setting these goals that aren't for you, it's not going to fulfill you in the end." You may know Jen Bigham as the 2019 winner of the Eugene Marathon. You may also know her the way much of the internet does: as "Local Elite." (Her Instagram and Twitter handle is, appropriately, @localelite.) On this episode, Jen talks about what it means to be a local elite runner, and it's pretty impressive. Not only did Jen win Eugene this year, she ran a 10-minute marathon PR in the process, finishing in 2:41 and nabbing a well-deserved Olympic Trials qualifying time. The road to an OTQ wasn't an easy one for Jen, who has been trying to land one since 2010. On this episode, Jen, who runs for Oiselle and is a high school track and cross-country coach, talks about the highs and lows along that road, and the illnesses, injuries, and series setbacks she faced. She talks about going from a 3:14 marathon before having kids to becoming a 2:41 marathon as a mom of three, and opens up social media and that dreaded comparison trap. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: What does "localelite" mean to Jen? (3:00) What it felt like to win the Eugene Marathon, run a 10-minute marathon PR, and get that sought-after Olympic Trials qualifying time (4:30) On getting faster after having kids (9:30) The heartbreaks along the way to an OTQ (16:00) Coming back from injury and illness (26:00) The role social media plays when chasing down big goals (31:00) On re-signing with Oiselle's Haute Volee team (39:20) On parenting and how Jen sets an example for her children (43:10) Jen's message to everyone chasing big goals (50:40) What we mention on this episode: Eugene Marathon Grandma's Marathon California International Marathon (CIM) Oiselle Follow Jen: Instagram @localelite Twitter @localelite Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 I knew that it was normal to feel this way." —Jill Koziol When Jill Koziol and Liz Tenety were new moms, they felt alone, terrified, and overwhelmed by this new adventure. Five — soon to be six — kids later (two for Jill, three with a fourth on the way for Liz), and Liz and Jill are the co-founders of Motherly, a website, community, and brand for moms in all stages of parenthood. With Jill as CEO, Liz as Chief Digital Officer, and a work-from-home team of 40 spread across the United States, Motherly sees more than 20 million monthly views, and is home to an active, engaged community. On this episode, Jill and Liz reflect on what new motherhood looked like for them, what it means to be motherly, and what they found in their second annual "State of Motherhood" survey. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Getting to know Jill and Liz (3:00) Why Motherly needed to exist (11:30) What were Jill and Liz like as new moms? (21:30) A look at the State of Motherhood survey — what were the surprises and validations? (24:30) "New-parent relationship tension stuff" (30:00) Why 85 percent of millennial moms don't feel understood or supported by society — and what we can do with that information (45:00) What we mention on this episode: This is Motherhood State of Motherhood survey Whitney Port on The Motherly Podcast Simple Habit app Follow Motherly: Instagram @mother.ly Twitter @motherlymedia The Motherly Podcast This Is Motherhood Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 work that goes into this, and we take it really seriously." —Sarah Lorge Butler Welcome to the first-ever Ali on the Run Show roundtable! I was thrilled and honored to get to have this conversation with four of the women leading the charge reporting on the women's running industry: Erin Strout (Women's Running), Sarah Lorge Butler (Runner's World), Lindsay Crouse (The New York Times), and Alison Wade (Fast Women). On this episode, we talk about what it's like covering professional women's running — both the highlights and the challenges. We talk about whether the four of them are competitive when it comes to breaking major stories, like Lindsay's recent "Dream Maternity" piece in the Times. They open up about their relationships with the best-known professional runners, and sound off on the current state of the industry as they see it. They also share their perspective on how to cover the industry critically and thoughtfully while also wanting to support runners of all abilities and advance the sport. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Are these women friends, competitors, or both? (4:45) Lindsay talks about the reaction to her "Dream Maternity" stories (6:00) Finding the balance between being critical and wanting to elevate and advance the industry (17:00) How the Fast Women newsletter comes together every week (19:30) On reading the comments (23:50) What is the current state of the women's running industry? (24:40) Who do these women love interviewing, and what are their relationships with the pros like? (33:30) What is the biggest struggle right now when it comes to covering women's running? (48:30) How to measure success in reporting (56:00) What we mention on this episode: Erin Strout on Episode 73 of the Ali on the Run Show "Nike Told Me to Dream Crazy, Until I Wanted a Baby," by Lindsay Crouse for The New York Times "Allyson Felix: My Own Nike Pregnancy Story," by Lindsay Crouse for The New York Times "7 Pearls of Wisdom From a 103-Year-Old World Record Holder" via Women's Running Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Des Linden on Episode 100 of the Ali on the Run Show Sara Hall on Episode 144 of the Ali on the Run Show "How the 'Shalane Flanagan Effect' Works," by Lindsay Crouse for The New York Times "How Emily Infeld Cross-Trained Her Way to the Olympics," by Erin Strout for Runner's World Follow Erin: Instagram @erinstrout Twitter @erinstrout Follow Sarah: Instagram @sarahlorgebutler Twitter @slorgebutler Follow Alison: Fast Women newsletter Instagram @fastwomen Twitter @fast_women Follow Lindsay: Instagram @lindsaycrouse Twitter @lindsaycrouse Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 thought oh, London Marathon, that sounds cute! So I signed up. And then I was like Paris Marathon? Oh my god, that sounds so cute, too. So I signed up for that, too." In her twenties, April Cargill was a two-pack-a-day smoker working long days and staying up late nights in the fashion industry in New York City. Today, at 55, the Harlem native is a six-time marathoner on a quest to complete all six World Marathon Majors. On this episode, April — who is the director of production for designer Shoshanna Lonstein Gruss — talks about why she started running in her fifties, what finally got her to kick the smoking habit, and what it's like being a hard-working single mom. Thank you to the New York Road Runners Virtual Pride Run 5K for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE to register (it's free!) and complete your run between June 22–30. Everybody's doing it! What you'll get on this episode: What was 20-year-old April up to? (3:00) What April's job in the fashion industry is like (4:50) How April got into a serious smoking habit — and found fitness when she quit (7:40) What it was like starting running in her fifties, and the intimidation factor that came with it (23:00) On joining November Project, and working out with her son, Aubrey (32:00) April opens up about being a single mom (41:40) How running has helped April get through tough times (47:11) What we mention on this episode: Project Start Candice Huffine on Episode 11 of the Ali on the Run Show Pratt Institute New York Road Runners John Honerkamp on Episode 4 of the Ali on the Run Show November Project Harlem Run Alison Desir on Episode 3 of the Ali on the Run Show April's November Project post Meaghan Murphy on Episode 113 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow April: Instagram @abril413 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"He said, 'I get it. The mountain's too steep.' And I said, 'No. It's just the wrong mountain.'" Jess Movold is perhaps best known as the super positive, super uplifting, super kind and empowering run and strength coach at Mile High Run Club and The Fortitude Strength Club in NYC. She's the current face of Runner's World (check her out on the cover!), and is the official "Runner's World Coach." So surely the 3:13 marathoner and 1:29 half marathoner from Missouri always envisioned this über-fit life for herself, right? Not quite. Jess began her career in the fashion industry, and she has stories that rival the ones in The Devil Wears Prada. On this episode, she shares her journey from high fashion to ultramarathons, and it's one that's packed with endearing and hilarious stories along the way — including the best "nothing new on race day" story I've ever heard. Up next: Jess wants to break three hours at the Berlin Marathon. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How it feels to see herself on the cover of Runner's World (2:55) How Jess got her start in the fashion industry — and found running along the way (7:00) The crazy stories about what being an executive assistant in the high-fashion industry looked like for Jess (31:00) Why Jess left the fashion industry and went all-in on fitness instead (41:15) What we mention on this episode: The Fort Mile High Run Club "The Workout That Helped This Runner Trim 20 Minutes Off Her Marathon Time" via Well+Good The Speed Project The Great New York 100 Mile Running Exposition Falmouth Road Race Follow Jess: Instagram @jessmovold Instagram @runnersworldcoach Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 a girl message, and it's not a boy message. It's a human message. It's about celebrating who you are, whatever you are." Kate T. Parker is the photographer and author behind the best-selling books Strong is the New Pretty and The Heart of a Boy. Her message for children is profoundly simple: You, just as you are, are worthy. You don't need to change who you are. Kids should feel strong and empowered being whoever they are. They should be accepted for staying true to themselves, whatever that looks like. Kate, a mom of two girls (Ella, 14, and Alice, 10) in Atlanta, GA, had a revelation a few years ago while taking photos of her kids. The photos weren't stereotypically "pretty" and posed, and the girls weren't sitting, smiling, wearing matching bows and dresses. They were messy. They were loud. They silly. And Kate wanted to make sure they always embraced that spirit. On this episode, Kate talks about the failure and rejection she experienced on the way to viral success, and talks about the moments when she knew the Strong is the New Pretty movement was making an impact. (They involve a Tweet from Emma Watson, and a DM exchange with David Beckham.) Kate, who is also a multiple-time triathlete and Ironman, opens up about what it's like when your middle school-aged daughter is dealing with bullying or mean girls, and talks about what she's doing to raise strong, confident children. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: On the highs, the worries, and the stress and loneliness of new motherhood (3:00) All about Strong is the New Pretty (11:15) All about The Heart of a Boy (35:15) The story behind Kate's Blended project (40:40) Kate's advice for raising confident children (42:40) Kate looks back on what new motherhood looked like for her (45:15) What we mention on this episode: Strong is the New Pretty The Heart of a Boy Strong is the New Pretty Journal Kate's Disney campaign BLENDED Scary Mommy A Mighty Girl on Facebook Meaghan Murphy on Episode 113 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Kate: Instagram @katetparker Twitter @ktparkerphoto Facebook Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 took a while — a lot of runs, a lot of soul searching — to have this confidence now to just show up and say, 'I've earned this. I deserve to be here. I've put in the work to be in this spot.'" Leigh Anne Sharek is the co-founder of the Brooklyn Track Club, which started as an idea a few years ago and has since grown to nearly 250 members. She's the co-host of the Runners of NYC podcast, she's a sub-five-minute miler, and she's a forensic scientist for New York City's chief medical examiner. (So cool!) On this episode, Leigh Anne talks about going from a 4-hour marathon to a 2:41 marathon, and nabbing an Olympic Trials qualifying time. She talks about running with faster people and what it's like when you realize you're fast, and she shares some oh-so-relatable feelings about showing up to her first group run. Leigh Anne, a former gymnast, has become a well-known face on the NYC running scene, and was named one of New York Road Runners' Runners of the Year last year. So what's it like moving up to the front of the pack and racing alongside the pros? Leigh Anne lets us know, and talks about the great state of the women's running community in New York City right now. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: On going from a 4-hour marathon to a 2:41 Olympic Trials Qualifier (4:20) Leigh Anne's take on having a chill approach to running and racing, and on finding her place at the front of the pack (13:25) Where the pressure to run well comes from (20:45) The birth and growth of Brooklyn Track Club (22:30) What it was like qualifying for the Olympic Trials (35:45) Leigh Anne's hopes and dreams for Brooklyn Track Club (43:00) All about life as a forensic scientist, including how Leigh Anne got into the field (44:30) Leigh Anne's advice for conquering big goals (51:10) What we mention on this episode: Leigh Anne Sharek on Episode 129 of the Ali on the Run Show Pace University New York Road Runners NYCRUNS Nike Run Club Sarah Cummings on Episode 112 of the Ali on the Run Show NYRR New York Mini 10K Steve Finley Follow Leigh Anne: Instagram @wicked.la Twitter @leighannesharek Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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're distance runners. We know how to dig in with hard stuff and persevere." Sara and Ryan Hall are one of the best-known couples in the running industry. Ryan is a retired professional runner: He holds the American record in both the half marathon (59:43) and marathon (2:04:58), and represented the United States at both the 2008 and 2012 Olympic games. Today, he's a coach, he's spending a ton of time bulking up in the gym, and he just published his latest book, Run the Mile You're In. Sara is a professional middle-distance-turned-long-distance runner, who holds a 2:26 marathon PR and has her eyes set on the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials. On this episode, Sara and Ryan talk candidly about their marriage, what they fight about, and what it's like being coached by your spouse. Ryan is Sara's coach, and they were very honest about what it's like for each of them when Sara doesn't have a good race or workout. They also talk about adopting their four daughters from Ethiopia, and take a trip down memory lane sharing their love story, from first sushi date to proposal to becoming parents. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: What the Halls are celebrating right now (3:50) Sara talks about what it's like being coached by her husband — and a glimpse at what they fight about in their relationship (4:40) Ryan and Sara's love story, including who made the first move, the first kiss, how Ryan proposed, and the roles running and religion have played in their relationship (13:30) Sara and Ryan's adoption story (23:35) How prepared did Sara and Ryan feel for parenthood, and what were their expectations? Plus, how they support and encourage their daughters when it comes to running (30:40) Fast Ryan or Ripped Ryan? Sara tells all! (45:15) What Ryan's decision to retire meant for the Hall family (49:15) How Sara has gotten faster over the past few years (50:45) What's next for the Halls? (58:10) What we mention on this episode: Run the Mile You're In NYRR New York Mini 10K Follow Sara: Instagram @sarahall3 Twitter @sarahall3 Facebook Follow Ryan: Instagram @ryanhall3 Twitter @ryanhall3 Facebook Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"Women are dying of causes that should not kill them in 2019." Dr. Taraneh Shirazian is a board-certified OB/GYN and surgeon practicing at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City, where she's also the Director of Global Women's Health at NYU's College of Global Public Health. In 2009, Dr. Shirazian created the Saving Mothers nonprofit organization, whose goal is to lower the global rate of maternal deaths. Currently, 350,000 women worldwide die due to pregnancy and childbirth complications. That's one mother dying every two minutes. On this episode, we talk about the important work Saving Mothers is doing to further women's empowerment and patient advocacy during pregnancy and childbirth, and we discuss why, exactly, so many women are dying this way, particularly women of color. Dr. Shirazian, a mom of two, also talks about her newest venture, Mommy Matters, which directly supports Saving Mothers. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Why Dr. Shirazian says doctors make the worst patients (5:15) Why are so many women dying during childbirth? (7:45) All about Saving Mothers (12:30) Why are so many women dying during childbirth in New York City? Plus, the racial disparities involved with maternal deaths (17:00) Shirazian's recommended resources for pregnant women (23:00) How to support Saving Mothers (24:30) All about Mommy Matters (27:20) Shirazian's message to moms in all stages of motherhood, plus what she remembers about her own experience as a new mom (35:50) On returning to work post-baby (41:30) What we mention on this episode: Saving Mothers Mommy Matters American College of OB/GYN Patient Education Portal Run the TCS New York City Marathon for Saving Mothers Mommy Matters ergonomic pillow Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 really can do anything. That doesn't mean it's going to be easy and that doesn't mean it's not going to be without sacrifice. It also doesn't mean you're going to be a rockstar at it. But you can do anything if you're willing to put yourself out there and really risk failing in a huge way." Last month, Jen Ator was hired as the new editor in chief of Women's Running. Before joining WR, Jen was the longtime fitness director at Women's Health. On this episode, Jen talks about her decision to leave one dream job for another, and shares her hopes, dreams, and big plans for Women's Running. She shares her running story, including the heartbreaking knee injury that sidelined her just as she was hitting her running groove. Plus, she shares her advice for getting through some "really tough days." Jen also talks about the opportunity of a lifetime: getting to race Ironman Kona with training partner and Olympic speed skater Apolo Ohno. She talks about her friendship with Deena Kastor, how her approach to exercise has changed over the past few years, and her book, The Fitness Fix. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How it feels to get to say "I'm an editor in chief" Plus, Jen opens up about her decision to leave one dream job for another (3:30) Jen's hopes, dreams, plans, and goals for Women's Running — and is anything off-limits? (9:15) What does the editor in chief job entail? (16:20) Jen reflects on her time at Women's Health, and how she rose through the ranks and really proved herself to a tough editor in chief (30:00) Jen's running story — how she went from college lacrosse player to runner to devastating ACL injury to competing at Ironman Kona alongside Apolo Ohno (39:30) On dealing with imposter syndrome leading up to Ironman Kona (54:30) What's next for Jen? (1:01:10) What we mention on this episode: Liz Plosser on Episode 72 of the Ali on the Run Show Erin Strout on Episode 73 of the Ali on the Run Show Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor Roz Frazier on Episode 135 of the Ali on the Run Show The Women's Health Fitness Fix by Jen Ator Follow Jen: Instagram @jen_ator Twitter @jen_ator Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 tried to float somewhere between hopeful and hopeless." Colleen Lubin's story is one of a tremendous amount of loss — and, ultimately, one of resiliency and strength. All her life, Colleen dreamed of becoming a mom. But, like the 6.1 million women in the United States who struggle with infertility, the road to having a baby wasn't easy for Colleen, who created the blog "Not Quite Knocked Up" to document her journey. (It's a must-read for those trying to conceive and those in the throes of new motherhood.) In the span of three years, Colleen suffered five miscarriages (including both a chemical pregnancy and an ectopic pregnancy) and two failed IVF treatments. The sixth time she found out she was pregnant — the one that would stick — was the day after her dad died unexpectedly. Today, Colleen is mom to nine-month-old Liam, and she's been open, honest, and very candid about her road to pregnancy, what pregnancy after loss is like, and what it was like going into labor six weeks early, six hours away from home. I am sending so much love and light to all the women out there this Mother's Day. Whether your day was celebratory or difficult, I am here for you. If I've learned anything as a new mom, it's that moms in all stages have each others' backs. I have yours. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: Did Colleen always know she wanted to be a mom? (4:00) Did Colleen expect the road to motherhood to be easy? (5:50) Colleen opens up about her long road to having a baby (9:40) The emotional side of suffering multiple miscarriages (20:20) Colleen's take on what to say — and what not to say — to women struggling with infertility, miscarriage, and loss (24:00) Colleen's IVF journey (31:00) The toll five miscarriages and two failed rounds of IVF took on Colleen's marriage (40:00) Colleen's reaction when she found out she was pregnant — the day after her dad passed away unexpectedly (45:35) Colleen's message to women struggling with infertility, miscarriage, or loss (57:00) On having a baby six weeks early, six hours from home (1:00:03) On guilt, shame, and inadequacy (1:04:00) What we mention on this episode: Kristin Mallon on Episode 136 of the Ali on the Run Show Abby Bales on Episode 139 of the Ali on the Run Show RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association Follow Colleen: Instagram @notquiteknockedup Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!

"Take assessment of who you feel more comfortable making eye contact with." Carolyn Su is the creator of the @diversewerun Instagram account, where she shares inspiring stories from runners from all backgrounds. Carolyn, who is a Taiwanese-American daughter of immigrant parents and was born and raised in Texas, is a strong voice advocating for more diversity and representation within the running community. On this episode, Carolyn — who is a mom of two living with her husband and kids in Boston, MA — talks about her foray into running and how having an eating disorder in high school and college factored into her running journey. She also talks about how we can all advocate for more diversity and inclusion within the running community. A must-listen! Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: How Carolyn became a runner — and how an eating disorder factored in (7:10) Carolyn's road to recovery from her eating disorder (13:30) Why Carolyn ran her first marathon (16:40) Did Carolyn's family support her running? (22:20) What it was like growing up as an Asian-American daughter of immigrants in Houston, TX (25:41) Why Carolyn started the @diversewerun Instagram account (35:44) What can I — a basic white girl with a community — do to encourage more diversity in running and amplify these voices from men and women of color? (46:00) Carolyn's advice for modeling good behavior for our kids, and how to teach young people about race (53:45) What we mention on this episode: Women Behind the Mic LIVE in Boston Chris Mosier on Episode 13 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Carolyn: Instagram @irunfortheglory and @diversewerun Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 a lot of people who put a lot of pressure on themselves — maybe you, maybe me — to do it all. So if you do have problems postpartum, we can treat that at seven months, we can treat that at three years, we can treat it when you're ready. I want to treat my moms when they're ready — not when they're feeling overwhelmed." Dr. Abigail Bales is the founder of Reform Physical Therapy in New York City, where she specializes in pregnancy and postpartum rehabilitation, primarily focused on pelvic floor health. In this episode, Abby, who is a board-certified licensed physical therapist, breaks down everything you need to know about the pelvic floor in an easy to understand way. She talks about exercise modifications during and after pregnancy, and explains why peeing yourself after giving birth is "common, not normal." Abby, who is a mom of two (Henry, 5, and Caitlyn, almost 2), also talks about mothering with a chronic illness (ulcerative colitis), her experience with postpartum depression, what her marriage was like after having children, body image, breastfeeding, going back to work after baby, and learning to ask for help. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: What exactly does a pelvic floor physical therapist do? (4:00) Signs you may have a weak pelvic floor, and when people should see a pelvic floor physical therapist (7:00) What to know about exercise modifications during pregnancy (8:30) Why, no, peeing yourself after pregnancy isn't normal according to Dr. Abby (14:30) Why I didn't see Abby after giving birth — and her response to my confession (19:20) How having a chronic illness has affected Abby during her pregnancies and in motherhood (25:45) Abby's experience with postpartum depression after her second baby (30:00) Abby reflects on new motherhood, marriage, and body stuff (35:00) On going back to work after having babies (41:00) What we mention on this episode: Abby on Episode 49 of the Ali on the Run Show Reform Physical Therapy The ACSM pregnancy guidelines Antony Lo PelvicRehab.com Global Pelvic Health Alliance directory Sara Blakely on Instagram Jenny Mollen on Instagram Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 was smiling the whole time — even when it hurt really bad. I was so happy and thankful to be out there." Lindsey Hein, host of I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein, is a returning guest on the Ali on the Run Show. Last month, Lindsey and I — along with fellow podcast hosts Carrie Tollefson and Tina Muir — did a live show during Boston Marathon weekend. But we wanted to keep the fun going! So Lindsey and I reconvened this week to talk about how Lindsey's Boston Marathon went (her first postpartum race since having baby number four!), what her training leading up to Boston looked like, and what's next on her race calendar. Then, we talk all things podcasting, including our most-downloaded episodes, biggest surprises, and rejections. Thank you to the New York Road Runners Virtual Dog Jog 5K for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE to register (it's free!) and complete your run today. Everybody's doing it! What you'll get on this episode: Lindsey reflects on the 2019 Boston Marathon, including her training leading up to the race and how race day went (2:40) Is there pressure that comes with knowing people are tracking you and following along during races? Plus, what's next on Lindsey's race calendar (17:00) Lindsey's expert advice for a 4-ish-hour marathoner who wants to maybe Boston Qualify someday (22:00) Rehashing the Boston live show (28:30) Lindsey chats all things podcasting, including her most popular episodes, the potential guest who turned her down, and dream guests (34:35) Lindsey's take on the current state of the running podcast world (45:00) How Lindsey gets it all done (52:00) What we mention on this episode: Lindsey on Episode 37 of the Ali on the Run Show Women Behind the Mic LIVE in Boston Boston Marathon Mary Johnson Ashley Fizzarotti Heather Jensen on I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Kristen Garzone on I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Amelia Gapin on I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson Follow Lindsey: Instagram @lindseyhein626 Facebook Twitter @lindseyhein Podcast Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 was like, really?! I just launched a podcast, I have a live show coming up, I grew my blog, I'm killing myself to kill it in my career — and you're going to congratulate me on this? On being out at a bar with a cute guy? Do not congratulate me for having a boyfriend!" Grace Atwood is the creator of the wildly popular blog The Stripe and the co-host of the Bad on Paper podcast. With more than 110,000 followers on Instagram, it's safe to say Grace, who is also a multiple-time marathoner, has made it as a successful full-time blogger and influencer — but that was never the goal or the plan, and when she first dove head-first into full-time blogging, Grace was embarrassed to own the title. But now, not only does she own it, she's also vocal about the hard work that goes into this lifestyle. (Turns out, it's not all glamorous photo shoots and exotic press trips.) On this episode, Grace talks about shifting her career from marketing at P&G to late nights at BaubleBar to a Gossip Girl-inspired DIY site that eventually became a six-figure business. She talks about learning the business side of blogging, about what takes up most of her time (hint: "Where's that from?"), and about everything you ever wanted to know about the lives of your favorite Instagrammers and bloggers. She keeps it real, light, and hilarious. Thank you to AfterShokz for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE for $50 off your wireless headphone endurance bundle! What you'll get on this episode: Was going into business for herself always Grace's vision? (2:45) The road to becoming a full-time blogger (8:00) How Grace grew her site and her brand, and how she learned the business side of blogging (18:00) What a day in the life of an influencer is actually like (25:00) Grace on dating, marriage, and whether or not she wants kids — and how her readers have reacted to her personal opinions (36:00) The very lucrative offer Grace recently turned down (44:40) On podcasting, confidence, and body positivity (50:00) Grace the runner! (58:00) What we mention on this episode: Coty BaubleBar rewardStyle DojoMojo Chinae Alexander Katie Sturino Honestly WTF Say Media A Day in Her Life series on The Stripe Girls Gotta Eat Team in Training 167 Raw The Correct Order to Apply Your Skincare Products via The Stripe The Devil in the White City The Idea of You Follow Grace: Instagram @graceatwood Twitter @graceatwood The Stripe Facebook Group The Stripe Bad on Paper podcast Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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 talk so much about the physical changes — but I wish we talked more about the emotional pieces in pregnancy." Welcome to the first episode in a 10-part Motherhood Mondays series on the Ali on the Run Show. The minute I found out I was pregnant in February 2018, my brain was consumed with all things pregnancy, childbirth, and Buy Buy Baby coupons. But once I gave birth, my world was rocked. I'd prepared for pregnancy, but had no idea what I was in for when it came to new motherhood. The breastfeeding, the hormones, the hair loss, the sleep deprivation — all things people had told me about, but that I don't think I ever could have fully prepared for. And so I struggled — hard. I've been at this new mom thing for six months now, and while I'm no expert, many of the guests on this series are. This series is all about new motherhood: the struggles, the intensity, the big wins, and little victories. It's a judgment-free, no-such-thing-as-TMI look at survival mode, thriving mode, and everything in between. First up: Kristin Mallon, a board certified nurse midwife and founder of Integrative Obstetrics in Jersey City, NJ, who has delivered more than 4,000 babies in her 16 years of experience. Kristin is a mom of four and a four-time marathoner — and she was my midwife! I had an amazing pregnancy and delivery under Kristin's care, and I'm thrilled to welcome her to the show. Thank you to Sweaty Betty for sponsoring Motherhood Mondays on the Ali on the Run Show! Go to sweatybetty.com and use code ONTHERUN for 20 percent off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: How Kristin became a midwife, and what the difference is between an OB/GYN and a midwife (3:30) Common misconceptions about midwifery (8:05) Who might want to consider using a midwife during pregnancy and delivery? (11:00) On first-time moms and pregnancy FAQs (13:55) Kristin's top dos and don'ts during pregnancy (18:10) What Kristin wants to say to women trying to get pregnant after miscarriage or loss (22:20) How to advocate for yourself during pregnancy (25:00) All about "birth plans" and birth disappointment (31:30) What is a midwife's role during the childbirth process? (41:00) On pooping and tearing (46:00) What women and their partners should understand about recovering from childbirth — physically and mentally (48:30) What Kristin's four birth experiences were like (54:00) What we mention on this episode: Integrative Obstetrics Expecting Better by Emily Oster Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn by Penny Simkin Ovia Health app The Birth Partner Vibrant Beginnings prenatal and postnatal supplements Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 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!