The Running for Real Podcast

Together run monday! Join Tina for a 30, 45, and 60 minute connective, reflective, peaceful run. We will ground ourselves with nature, check in with our body and mind, and take in our five main senses, before having a chat. Each group finishes their run with a few strides. This is as close to running with a friend without running with a friend. We love hearing feedback and seeing you out on your together runs. Be sure to share and sign up for the watchalong this weekend! Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun28 Tina mentioned Tracksmith's shakeout run Sign up for the Running For Real watch along Steve Donziger on Drilled Podcast Steve Donziger story Brett Goldstein and Brene Brown COP26 Video about #thehumanrace campaign Running Realized No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

When you read about Jerome Foster II's accomplishments, you'd be forgiven for assuming that he's worked in the public sector for decades. He serves on the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council; is one of the major organizers of Fridays for Future Washington, which holds weekly climate strikes in front of the White House; helped to organize three of the largest climate marches in the Washington, D.C. area; and is the executive director of OneMillionOfUs, an international youth advocacy and voting rights organization. That would be an impressive resume for someone at the end of their career, but Jerome is only 19 years old. In today's episode he talks about why he's devoted himself to addressing the climate crisis, shares advice on how we can all take positive action, and tells why, despite all of the challenges, he's hopeful for the future. "It's the system that has to change because the system is what caused the problem." Small actions taken by individuals won't solve the climate emergency; meaningful change has to come from the government and corporations. As Jerome explains, "There's the fossil industry which pays the officials to not take action and that's why we don't have climate action. It's just that the system is money in politics. And people have to understand that beyond voting, we have to also be actively aware and actively pushing our elected officials if we don't elect people that are real champions of the people." "If a company makes a product, they have to be accountable to that product that they make and what happens to it." Companies place the responsibility to live sustainably on the consumer, but very few people have the option to change their lifestyle in a meaningful way. It's the companies that need to take action. It's almost impossible to shift away from using plastic, but a company like Coca Cola could revert back to the way it used to do business, when it sold soda in returnable glass bottles. What consumers can do is choose companies that only create renewable products. So many companies produce one sustainable product, then use those profits towards the production of other materials that destroy the planet. Jerome advises that consumers should "tell that larger company, say Coca Cola, that until all of your products are sustainable, it doesn't matter that one of your bottles is sustainable because that one bottle is fueling the whole system." "You shouldn't tell them about the scale of the climate crisis, what you should really do is tell them about how to live sustainably." Jerome believes that scaring young people about the enormity of the climate crisis does more harm than good. Instead they should be taught to view sustainable living, like having solar panels on a house or driving an electric car, as the norm, and "that is how you can raise a generation that sees gas powered cars, and coal, oil, and natural gas as how my generation sees the rotary phone and sees the VHS, like it's outdated." "It just feels like your future was stolen, quite honestly." Previous generations have left it to young people who had no part in the destruction of the environment to repair it, while taking no responsibility themselves. As Jerome says, "I didn't reap any of the benefits that you did when you had fun making this mess. Now I have to spend all of my waking hours fixing what you did and you don't even have the respect to come back and help me clean it up. I think that what we're asking people to do is to help. We don't need apologies. We know that you may not have known back in the day when it was happening that you're making a mess. But now you know, so come and help and come be a part of this movement." "The impetus to why I founded OneMillionOfUs is to have an organization that brought together all justice movements under the umbrella of voting." While interning for Rep. John Lewis, Jerome realized that many social issues intersect, so why not have advocates for all of them join together? He created OneMillionOfUs to unite them, "so that whenever we organize a strike or protest or civil disobedience that immediately transitions into voting. And the slogan was 'take it to the streets, take it to the polls' and 'today we strike, tomorrow we vote.'" Jerome says he feels the most hopeful about the future of the planet "when I'm at climate strike and going in the streets, going out with my friends and saying what needs to be done." There's a tremendous amount to do, but he'll never give up. "I just keep pushing forward because people sent me here to fight for them So I'm going to keep on fighting no matter what." resources: OneMillionOfUs Instagram OneMillionOfUs Facebook OneMillionOfUs GoFundMe Jerome's Instagram Thank you to InsideTracker, Beam, and Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but haven't really found clear solutions? That is where InsideTracker can come in for you. I have trusted this company for

It's #togetherrun time! Join Tina for a 30, 45, and 60 minute run together....while apart. We start by grounding ourselves with nature, then check in with our body and mind, followed by paying attention to five of our senses, and then have a conversation. Each group finishes their run with a few strides. Tina carries a small, handheld mic to make it be as close to running with a friend as possible...without actually doing it. We love hearing feedback and seeing you out on your together runs. Be sure to share. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun27 Tina mentioned COP26 Video about #thehumanrace campaign No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Kyle Robidoux was ready to run the Boston Marathon this year, with Tina as his guide, until fate intervened in the form of a stress fracture. Any runner would be gutted to have to DNS, and Kyle is no exception. However, he's well versed in overcoming adversity and tough situations. When he was eleven, he was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness, and he was declared legally blind at nineteen. Today he shares the story of his journey, how he ensures that he isn't defined by the boundaries that others place on him, and a few beer recommendations. "I had high cholesterol, high blood pressure in my early 30s and I knew I needed a lifestyle change." In 2010 Kyle found that he got tired playing with his two year old daughter; he got tired bending over to tie his shoelaces, for that matter. He was overweight, his biomarkers were bad, and he knew he had to improve his health. He started walking, then running, gradually increasing the time he ran. He didn't have a goal in mind, other than trying to run a few minutes longer every week. "When I hit two hours I said, 'wow, when am I ever going to be able to run two hours again? I should sign up for a race.' And that was when I signed up for my first half marathon." One day, his intended 90 minute run extended to an hour and 45 minutes. He felt great, so he kept going, and when he hit two hours, he realized he was ready for a half marathon. Since then, he's completed over 25 marathons and ultras, including five 100 milers and the grueling six-day, 120 mile Transrockies Run. Getting to that point wasn't easy, not only in the sense of the physical training, but coming to terms with the progressive loss of his eyesight. "I felt angry because all these things were being taken away from me, and what I realized at the end was I was giving up on all those things that I loved and I just needed to adapt and change things up a little bit in order to continue doing them." When Kyle was diagnosed with RP, doctors said that he would be totally blind by college. He and his parents talked about some aspects of the prognosis, but didn't address the emotional impact of vision loss. And for a time, they didn't have to. Kyle was declared legally blind at 19, but it wasn't until his late twenties, he says, that "it really started taking things away from me that I loved, like skiing independently and playing recreational baseball and pick up leagues for baseball and softball. And I was just becoming really bitter and angry." At the urging of his then girlfriend, now his wife, he started seeing a therapist. It was hard for him at first, but ultimately it helped him work through the loss and anger, and gave him tools to cope with his diminishing eyesight. Now he encourages anyone struggling emotionally to at least give therapy a try. As he says, "you don't have to commit 100%, but if folks go once or twice, I feel like you start to see the benefits really quickly, even if it's just once a week for an hour. I think there's tremendous value in that and I certainly feel like if I would have started it earlier, it would have been much more beneficial to my overall well being, and quite possibly my physiological and physical health, in addition to my mental health." "And then I asked, I'm like, 'well, you know because I am an idiot and have an ego sometimes, what happens if I do run Boston?" The coping mechanisms that he's learned through therapy are helping Kyle now, as he processes not being able to run the Boston Marathon. He's run it the past eight or nine years, and was ready to continue that streak this year, with Tina as his guide. But shortly before race day he was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his foot, and reluctantly accepted that it would be best not to run. He could have done it, albeit painfully, but it would have resulted in having to take up to four months off from running, rather than 3 - 8 weeks. The tradeoff, he concluded, wasn't worth it. Since he's usually running Boston, he's only spectated there once, so this year, he says, "I'm gearing myself up to get really excited to cheer." Oh, and also to get together with friends to have a few beers and possibly fill squirt guns with Fireball to shoot at people as they walk by. Basically, he says, "I'm hoping to truly embrace the spectator side of what is so special about the Boston marathon." "I would just say that anyone and everyone can be a guide." Kyle runs accompanied by a guide. Guides are needed for runners of all abilities, and there's training and support available for anyone who would like to be one. United in Stride can help you locate runners who are visually impaired in your community and connect with them. Achilles International has a list of their chapters around the country. Kyle strongly believes that "with a little bit of training and support and strong communication everyone can be a sighted guide." "I tell folks also that part of being a sighted guide

Join Tina for something really special, today these together runs are six months old and more runners are joining every week for the community, connection, and closeness to running with a friend. In this 30, 45, and 60 minute run for #togetherrun26, we connect to mother earth, complete a body scan, check in with our senses, and have a conversation. Finishing each version of the run with a few strides. Tina carries a small, handheld mic to make it be as close to running with a friend as possible...without actually doing it. We love hearing feedback and seeing you out on your together runs. Be sure to share. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun26 Tina mentioned Buy Nothing Groups- see if your area has one. No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Kayleigh Williamson made history in 2017, when she became the first person with Down syndrome to run in - and complete - the Austin Half Marathon. Since then she's finished 12 more half marathons, numerous races at other distances, and is training for her first marathon in 2022. She's written a children's book, It's Cool To Be Me, dedicated to people with Alzheimer's, which her late grandmother suffered from and which often occurs in people with Down syndrome. Her running journey is inspiring proof of what grit and heart can accomplish. "I had taken her to a doctor at 215 pounds. He looked at her and he told me,'this, it's not gonna end well.'" Kayleigh was in her early 20s when her grandmother had her second stroke and soon after was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Her mother, Sandy, began researching the disease and discovered that the chance of somebody with Down syndrome developing Alzheimer's is "astronomically higher" than it is for other people. Kayleigh consumed a lot of fast food, processed food, and soda, and weighed 215 pounds. She had developed autoimmune disorders, including Graves' disease, and Sandy knew that she had to do something to help her daughter. "I expected some type of rejection. And the running community, we got total acceptance and 80 pounds came off of her body and every one of her autoimmune disorders went into remission. And today I see how healthy she is." Sandy initially feared that Kayleigh wouldn't be accepted by the running community, but they embraced her. And even though she began running because of Sandy's encouragement, it's her own commitment that takes Kayleigh to the finish line. "I tell her she can stop if she needs to stop," Sandy says. " She never does. And that's the part that's kind of humbling to me whether we're training or we're in the middle of a race because she's got this determination that she just doesn't stop." "You have to get to the point you don't care what the rest of the world thinks." The opinion of others bothered Sandy more than it did Kayleigh. She remembers a race where they were in last place. She grabbed Kayleigh's hand to get her to run faster, and Kayleigh jerked her hand back. At that point, Sandy realized, "It's more important for her to finish the race than what anyone else thinks about where we are in the race. And I think that's kind of the same for life." "If you pick up your toys and go home, you don't influence change." That isn't to say that disregarding others' opinions is easy. Sandy recalls a race where people were openly staring and taking pictures, and she resolved that they would never go back there. But then she realized that the situation would never improve if they just walked away, so, she says, "we have specifically decided that we're going back and we're doing those races over again until we impact that change." "I think anytime you're told that your child is uniquely different in any way, you feel this need to protect them to the point that you think you're fixing it. And really it was the realization that she didn't need fixing." When Kayleigh was born, Sandy was told that she should put her in an institution. Now she's proud that her daughter can stand on her own two feet. She's realized that "she doesn't need me protecting her, a lot of times she needs me to get out of the way." Sandy raised Kayleigh to give everything her best shot. She's done that, and succeeded. "Don't let somebody else tell you what you can and cannot do. Get out there and try it, and if the first time you try it and you don't succeed, but you know in your heart of hearts you can still do it, get up there and do it again as many times as you need to get back up." resources: Kayleigh's Instagram Kayleigh's Facebook Video of Kayleigh at the Austin Half Marathon It's Cool To Be Me Thank you to Tracksmith, InsideTracker, and Beam for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston based company that truly cares about the quality of their running clothes. Running can be demanding on our clothes; they definitely go through wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers work with the finest materials and keep you in mind as a runner, with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! Click here and enter code TINA15 to get $15 of your purchase of $75 or more. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but haven't really found clear solutions? That is where InsideTracker can come in for you. I have trusted this company for years to show me where I may be lacking and if I need a few tweaks here and there. I count on InsideTracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. A new product that I've been trying out is Beam; they help athletes with balance, performance, and recovery. I've used "elevate energy" and "elevate balance" and the flavors were great. I felt

Together runs are 25 today! Join Tina for #togetherrun25 around the dark St Louis suburbs. In this 30, 45, and 60 minute run, Tina carries a small, handheld mic to make it be as close to running with a friend as possible...without actually doing it. We start with a body scan, then go onto a senses check up, updates from life this week, and have a conversation. We love hearing feedback and seeing you out on your together runs. Be sure to share. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun25 Tina mentioned No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: BUT, please fill out this survey to let the Running For Real team know what you are enjoying and what we could include more of. Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Regina Lopez is a pro runner for Salomon, competed in the 2020 Olympic Trial Marathon, and won her first Spartan Trail Race. Last year she set a new 50 mile treadmill world record (8:41:37), despite never having trained for or run anything longer than a marathon and never having run longer than six miles on a treadmill. You'd never expect that somebody so accomplished would struggle with confidence and self-image, but she has. Today she talks about how she works through those issues, the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you, and taking on the challenge of trying new things. Know that you are equal to them, that if you put in the work and you get in that line, you belong there, and I did belong there. Throughout her twenties, Regina mainly ran marathons, and it was starting to get old. "I was just doing the same thing, and just hanging out with the same people doing the same thing and I just got bored," she recalls. She had friends who ran Spartan races and followed Courtney Dauwalter and other ultra runners, and was intrigued by the idea of running trails and longer distances. So she entered the Spartan Trail US Championship Women's 21K in 2019. She hadn't focused on trail running, and she wasn't sponsored at the time, so seeing all of the sponsored athletes competing was a little intimidating. But, she says, "I just went in that race, I had fun. I was competitive, I raced my own race, and I won." In 2021 she ran her first ultra, the 50K Road National Championship, and earned second place. I wanted to be part of something where I felt included, where I felt that it was something bigger than myself, with people who want to just grow, who are about inclusion, who are about just treating people right. She caught the attention of Salomon, which she believes is the perfect sponsor for her. They're not as interested in her times as in who she is as a person. If that wasn't the case, if she didn't feel welcome, she wouldn't have taken the sponsorship. To live a life where you're not being acknowledged, you're not being appreciated, you're not doing something that's rewarding, then why do it? When Covid hit, Regina realized that she wanted to be more than "just a runner." She'd been so focused on being an athlete that she had never thought she'd have a career. She'd also never had anyone support her ambitions. Then she found her current job, which she loves, working with children with autism. Like Salomon, it feels like a community, and she has mentors to help her grow. When I got into running it made me feel like I was strong, like people's opinions didn't matter to me. Yeah, that's how I gained confidence and so I just put all my focus on running. There were many times when Regina felt alone and self-conscious. She had a speech problem and didn't begin speaking until she was five. Ever since she was a baby, she was called "chubby." It wasn't intended to be mean; people thought it was cute, but it hurt. She was athletic, though, and played basketball and volleyball, and then got into running and weight training. All of that helped her shift her mindset and appreciate what her body can do. When I've been put down so much during my life, I feel like that pushes me to want to achieve that goal. Regina didn't have access to a track and did all of her running workouts on the streets of Los Angeles. She didn't have money for college tuition. But the more that people told her that she wouldn't run competitively or go to college, the more determined she was to prove them wrong. In her senior year of high school, she went to a running camp at UCLA. She earned a college scholarship. When she was at the running camp, the coach told her, "keep running; we need more representation." At first what he meant didn't click, but then, she says, "I went to a half marathon and a woman and her daughter came up to me after the race and the mom, she said, 'thank you so much.' You know, 'you're a strong Latina woman. We need more women like you.'" Now she loves giving the encouragement that she lacked when she was growing up to other young women. It just feels great when I know I'm making an influence. Like there's two girls, they actually went to my 50 mile treadmill race. And every time I see them, they always tell me, "you inspire me," and it just feels great that I'm able to encourage other female young runners. Resources: Regina's Instagram Ecosia - the search engine that plants trees Thank you for listening to the Running for Real podcast! We'd love to have your input on how we can make Running for Real the best that it can be. If you can spare a few moments, would you please fill out our survey? Even just answering the multiple choice questions would be very helpful, and if you could also answer the open-ended ones, that would be great! Running for Real Survey Thank you to Athletic Greens, goodr, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. AG1 is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and w

oin Tina for her first regular run back from injury. If you have experinced the paranoia of pain returning when getting back to training, you will know this well. Join Tina for this #togetherrun24 where she does a 30, 45, and 60 minute run carrying a small, handheld mic. We start with a body scan, then go onto a senses check up, updates from life this week, and have a conversation. We love hearing feedback and seeing you out on your together runs. Be sure to share. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun24 Tina mentioned No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: BUT, please fill out this survey to let the Running For Real team know what you are enjoying and what we could include more of. Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

There are four cardinal virtues recognized by almost all of the world's philosophies: courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. Ryan Holiday examines the first in his latest book, Courage is Calling: Fortune Favors the Brave. His other books include the bestselling Stoic trilogy of The Obstacle is the Way, Ego is the Enemy, and Stillness is the Key. He has a popular newsletter and podcast, The Daily Stoic, and on top of all that, he's a runner! On today's episode we talk about philosophy, running, and how they intersect. Seneca talks about this word euthymia, which basically he defines as tranquility, but his definition is that it's when you have the sense of the path that you're on and you're not distracted by the paths that crisscross yours. Seneca was speaking about a basis of human life goals, but it can apply at any level, including being disciplined in your running. Years ago Ryan was out on the track when someone came alongside him, "and now all of a sudden we're racing for no reason. And I remember thinking, he has no idea how long I've been here; he has no idea how long I ran to get here. Why are we in this pointless competition with each other to prove nothing to nobody?" Ideally, we should do whatever we're doing and not be concerned with what others are doing. Ryan says that as a runner, "just because someone else is there, just because someone comes up behind you, just because someone is twenty paces in front of you, to be able to tune that out and just focus on what you're trying to do, to me is the key part of the discipline of running." The Stoics would say that anything you do out of compulsion is not good. I kind of see it as of all the things to be compulsive about, this is probably one of the least bad. Another discipline of running is consistency, which can slip over into compulsion. Ryan acknowledges that he's streak-focused, but also sees it as a strength. For example, he says, "as a writer, the way you write books is by showing up every day and writing a little bit, and that adds up cumulatively to books and that's certainly how I, on a consistent basis, have published what I've been able to publish." He likes to do some form of strenuous exercise every day, but tries to balance out his compulsion to run by biking or swimming. What I love about running is that it's self contained and totally in your control. Ryan believes that one of the things that contributes to burnout is working and "not feeling like you're making progress, not feeling like it's having an impact, not feeling like there's an end in sight, not feeling like you're progressing, not getting any sort of validation or win out of it." Running is the opposite of that because it's rewarding every time that you do it: "It's like you decided to run for four miles, you go run for four miles and then you come home and that's a win. And so what I love about running is that it's an easy win every day. Even the hard days are still easy compared to the rest of the world, which is so much more uncontrollable." The courage to be oneself, to be difficult, to be unusual, to transgress norms or expectations, is just as scary and just as important in the long run as any form of physical courage might be. People tend to think of courage in terms of physical feats, but it's also "when you put yourself out there, when you do what needs to be done despite the fact that it's scary or hard or risky." Ryan tells a story about Margaret Thatcher, who went for her first job interview after university and saw a note that the interviewer had written, saying that she had far too much personality to work there. That's true, Ryan says, she did have too much personality for the job, "but she was courageous enough not to become what she needed to be to work there." There are two kinds of plagues. There's the one that destroys your life and then there's the one that destroys your character. That's one of Ryan's favorite quotes from Marcus Aurelius, who lived during a time of plague. It was only during the current pandemic that Ryan realized that quotes like that one, which he had thought were purely figurative, were literal, as well. Now, he says, it's "like, oh I see what you're saying. Yes, you can get Covid. Or you can get infected with something worse than Covid, which is whatever is making these people scream at grocery store employees or take horse dewormer, you know, whatever. You can get infected with a different kind of disease, a different virus. It's actually worse because it makes you worse as a person. It might not have the same health concerns. But it's almost worse." One of the things that I love about Stoicism is that it's a philosophy that articulates really clearly what our obligations are to other people. For me, the idea that stoicism is this sort of insular personal philosophy really misses what was actually a philosophy designed to make one active in the world. Resources: Ryan's website The Daily Stoic Ryan's Facebook Ryan's Instagr

Tina carries a small handheld mic as she does a 30, 45, and 60 minute run with the community. Join in for a body scan, senses check up, updates from life this week (including talking throguh a small injury), and a conversation. This week we talk about small things that can be done environmentally to add into life...although, as you will hear, it is not quite that simple(!). There is a reason these together runs are very popular, give it a try and join in! Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun23 Be sure to let us know if you would like to attend the Boston meetup on October 10 by emailing Tina Tina mentioned No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

At 32, writer/musician Mishka Shubaly could have stepped out of a Bukowski novel. Then, after nearly twenty years of hard drinking, he quit cold turkey. A few months after getting sober, he ran five miles: "My life seemed to shift a few degrees. New possibilities had only been negative for a long time - it was possible that I would wind up in rehab; it was possible that I would wind up in jail. Suddenly some invisible divider had cracked and then shattered. It was now possible that I could do good things, too." Within a year he ran his first ultra marathon. His bestseller, The Long Run, is a raw, yet often humorous, chronicle of his substance abuse and becoming a runner. Mishka no longer has "one foot in the gutter and the other in the grave." On this week's episode, he shares his thoughts on religion, education, getting older, and of course, running. I made it as as honest and ugly as my experience had been, and when I when I turned it in, I was like, this is going to f***ing destroy any writing career that I have because I copped to so much. Because there's just so much filth and weakness, and then the response that I got was wild. When his editor suggested that he write about becoming a runner, Mishka was less than enthusiastic. "I didn't want to write about my transformation," he says, "because in 2011 that was an old story and I was like, "no it's b**s***. I'm not gonna write another one of those Lifetime made-for-TV movies. You know, the guy learns to run and then figures out all these relationships and it ends with this sort of rosy hued sunset and the family reunites, because it's b***s***, you know? And that's not what it's like." That wasn't what his editor had in mind. He wanted him to write about finding himself trapped in the inspirational narrative against his will. So that's what Mishka gave him, and the response was overwhelming. We root for the underdog, and in people's mistakes and weakness and vulnerability, we see our own. Mishka's brutal honesty about his life empowers readers and audience members to share their own stories with him. "Men will come up to me after shows and just reveal stuff to me where I'm like, "keep your voice down; this is a secret," you know? And it's an honor to be entrusted with those secrets. And also it's a f***ing drag because they're like "oh, thank God, I got that off my chest." And I'm like, "yeah, you got it on to mine." I realized that I had felt so alone and so isolated and that was my own invention in my head. People didn't necessarily relate to his circumstances, but his struggles spoke to them. It came as a surprise: "I had no idea that there were so many other people like me out there and now whenever I go to a race - not necessarily a 5K or something, but whenever you go to an ultra - and looking at the starting line, it's like, "what's up, you f***ing degenerates? You know everybody here has some awesome, horrible secret and that's what's driving you to run 100 miles, 50 miles, 50K, whatever it is, that, 'we're here because we're not all there.'" Running is limitless, it's boundless, and that is the hippiest thing that I will say on this podcast. Mishka describes his relationship with running in the same way that others describe their relationship with God: "I know that running is always there, it exists constantly whether I'm there participating or not ... it will always be there for me, it will always be available to me ... it's sort of like air, it's just everywhere, it's all around us, and we don't see itbecause it's all around us, not because it's not there." I will fight to my dying breath to say that people who take on the burden of educating themselves through any means, it doesn't need to be university, but it needs to be something where you interrogate your own beliefs, that that's an honorable pursuit and that it does make you a better human being. Running isn't the only thing in the air. So is anti-intellectualism, at least in the United States, and it's an attitude that he despises. "It's hard to go to school. It's hard to get an education. It's hard to take on that challenge of learning, to say, 'here's a thing that I don't know, that I don't understand.'" We can't go back and bring back the wisdom that we've acquired, we can't go back and leave the wisdom that we've acquired. Knowledge, of course, comes not only from education but also from experience. Despite the pitfalls of getting older - as Mishka says, "if you live long enough, you'll turn into the creepy old dude at the rock concert" - he wouldn't go back in time to be his younger self. Experience has taught him the value of doing things that don't garner accolades, like making sure that his cat and dog are happy and know that he loves them, even though, as he says, "I can't brag to anybody, 'I ranked second in my age division, competitive cat petting. I'm an ultra petter.'" I'm trying to just do little things where there's no finish line, there's no cheering spectators, there's

If you have been missing running with friends, these together runs are a way to feel connected to the running community, and feel like you are running alongside a best running friend. Join Tina for an early morning run including, as always, a body scan, senses check in, and conversation about favorite TV shows, and more. Tina also explains how to do strides, and will take you through 2-6 strides as part of your run. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun22 Be sure to let us know if you would like to attend the Boston meetup on October 10 by emailing Tina Tina mentioned No sponsors today, trying to keep this authentic and like really running with a friend. If you want to support Tina and the Running For Real team: Through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. You can share on social media and let others know about what you are loving in these together runs. You can leave a review on iTunes. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Multimedia artist and professional ultra/trail runner Christian Gering draws inspiration from running and his Native American heritage. Hailing from Katishyta (San Felipe Pueblo) and the Pi'pil people of El Salvador, he believes that "running is a form of art, and art is also a form of movement." He balances his running achievements, which include winning and setting course records at the Javelina 100K and Jemez Mountain Trail Runs 50 Mile, with creating art reflective of movement and the land. So much of what I've learned through this process is being able to step into opportunity with confidence and knowing that I am capable. One of Christian's recent projects was creating fabric prints for Janji, the first time a runner has designed the apparel. It was a new experience for him, which he equates to running: "It's like that moment that you are on the start line and there's anxiety, potentially ... you're excited by the environment and wondering if whatever you did is going to be enough. And just to remind people that when we put in the work and we manifest and we have that intention, you areenough, we all are capable of whatever we put our mind to." A common saying that they would say would be, " go outside" and I reflect on that so much because that is where the imagination for myself started. Christian's parents encouraged him to be active physically and intellectually. Growing up in Nevada, there was plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation, and, he says, "I just always held that so close to my heart because when I got the chance to go outside, I had the chance to express myself." He developed his imagination playing outdoors with his friends, where they created games from their surroundings. Heavily involved in sports from an early age, he entered Nevada's Olympic Development Program, hoping to become a professional soccer player. However, he became disenchanted by the politics behind it and the lack of a supportive environment. He decided that it was time to let go of his soccer "dream" and transition to something different. My dad thought it would be a great last bonding experience for the men of the house to share something together, something that would be of significance. Around the time that he decided to stop soccer, his older brother got out of Marine Corps boot camp, and his father suggested that they all run the Las Vegas Rock and Roll Marathon together. During the year leading up to the race, he trained "maybe three months and not even consistently, it was probably like one day of the week I'd run, maybe the next week I'd run two days, and then take a week off and run one other day." At mile 22 of the marathon, as he was limping to the aid station, his dad passed him, "just chipper, you know, big smile, and I could just already feel he has something to say and sure enough,he goes, "All that training, is it paying off for you, Christian?" Christian went on to run cross-country in high school, but after graduation found himself on a different path. After high school I realized, well, I'm not gonna go for sports, so I'll pursue the other, which is my artistic side. It's not athletics; I'll do art. He enrolled in the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, where he started using marijuana and alcohol regularly and remembers "just kind of getting further away from moving my body and at the same time I'm starting to see a stagnancy in my creative flow because I'm not moving my body as much." He left art school, and on a backpacking trip into the mountains with friends, felt that he was back in his community. I was going inward and really molding myself to be representative like the mountains, like the landscapes. He went to live with his grandparents, where he worked their farm alongside his grandfather every day, then would go for a run in the mountains. "So much of my relationship with movement," he says, "was also tied to my connection-ship and relationship to land." He enrolled at Fort Lewis College where he joined the track team, becoming their top runner and attracting the attention of the Native community. So I started to make these little zine infographics. I called it "imprints" in relation to setting down footprints on this earth that we leave behind and that hopefully others will pick up. Toward the end of his college career, Christian would be invited to speak to young people who were going on to higher education and would resonate with his story. He realized that he wasn't reaching some of them with a speech, and wanted to give them "a gift of something else, [his] creative passion." He created a zine that he would give to every participant, which led to him presenting workshops, sharing his artwork more, and ultimately to the relationship with Janji. When I think about it, going back to the cultural component, this is a life-way. Christian reflects, "At many points within many different communities, running was sought out as a form of transportation, a form of trade, a for

Join Tina for an unplanned, unscheduled, conversational run that will be as close as running with a friend as possible...without actually running with a friend. As marathon season approaches, Tina gives advice for going into your races prepared and ready. Tina also gives suggestions for fueling and what she will be doing for her races over the next few months. Part meditation, part reflection, part check-in, join Tina for #togetherrun21 Be sure to let us know if you would like to attend the Boston meetup on October 10 by emailing Tina Tina talked about UCAN as her fuel source for the coming races. You can get 20% off your order and find out more about Tina's favorites, here. You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Tina mentioned Tina and Zoe's book Patreon Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

When Sasha Wolff discovered the benefits of running for mental health, she wanted to connect with others who did the same thing. She couldn't find an existing group, so she created her own, Still I Run. What began as a Facebook page and website is now a non-profit charity and a community of runners over 16,000 strong. "The biggest stat out there is one in five Americans will be diagnosed every single year with a mental illness." Even if you're not affected, the odds are that you know somebody who is. Mental illness doesn't discriminate. "Mental illness doesn't care where you are in life," Sasha says. "It doesn't care how happy you are. It just happens. It's like when you get a cold out of the blue or you break your leg unexpectedly, or you have a heart attack. You don't plan for those things, they just happen." "Once I finally started taking that proactive approach, that's when things started to get better for me." When Sasha was first diagnosed with depression, she was given a prescription for Prozac and sent on her way. That didn't work, and since then she's learned the necessity of proactively managing mental health. She has three tools in her mental health toolbox: running, medication, and therapy. "I'm hoping that this conversation really explodes into something bigger because we need the support system now." Alexi Pappas was one of the first professional athletes to discuss mental health. Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka raised awareness further when they stepped away from competition this year. Sasha applauds them: "I think when you have voices like that come forward, it inspires others to come forward, which is why I've decided to be vulnerable about my own story because you hope it at least helps one other person." "It does kind of help you feel like you're part of something larger than yourself." The Starting Line Scholarship helps people overcome the barriers they may have to running. "So our hope," Sasha says, "is that by awarding this scholarship, we're giving you all the tools that you need to get started with this lifelong habit of running for mental health." "Lead with empathy." Sasha realizes that "it's really hard to understand mental illness because it's not something you can see. It's not something you can really understand unless you talk to someone who may have a mental health disorder." The best thing that you can do if you know someone with a mental illness is to be empathetic. If you're struggling yourself, know that you're not alone. RESOURCES: Still I Run website Run.Write.Fight. Starting Line Scholarship Still I Run Facebook Still I Run Instagram Dear Therapists podcast Tina's Together Runs Thank you to Athletic Greens, goodr, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good, as well. Go here to get a FREE year supply of Liquid Vitamin D and five FREE travel packs with your subscription. I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with co-founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the Planet. Go here and use the code TINA15 for 15% off your order. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars! I have had a few people from the Picky Bars company on the podcast and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious, but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. They're gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free, with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to build your own Picky Club Box, delivered every month. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, and we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that the topic will resonate with them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are others are too, and you will help them feel less alone. Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player. Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people. Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe? You can find out here. "Thank you" to Sasha. We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join Tina for a together run for a BIG announcement. This run is unplanned, unscheduled, and as always feels like you are running with a friend. If you enjoy relaxed, conversational runs, but are unable to participate in them right now, this will be for you. Tina asks a few thoughtful questions to keep the listener engaged and thinking about their own lives. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, join Tina for #togetherrun20 Be sure to let us know if you would like to attend the Boston meetup on October 10! We also talk about the virtual Rise Run Retreat coming up September 17-19th, and how much Tina valued the experience of attending in 2015 for the lessons she still uses to this day. With code TINA10 get 10% off your registration when you sign up here. You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Tina mentioned Zoë Rom podcast episode Patreon Rise Run Retreat Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

In this episode we talk about: Jon's experience running for Georgetown University and turning professional Why you may not need a coach, but it's beneficial to get feedback from someone who's knowledgeable about running Jon's philosophy of coaching and how he and Molly Seidel work together The buildup to the Olympic marathon trials in Atlanta and Jon's experience there The impact of the Olympics' postponement on Molly's performance What it was like for Jon to watch Molly medal at the Olympics and the preparation he luckily made Jon and Molly's future racing plans Jon's role as the head coach at Atalanta NYC "The results will come if you just kind of constantly listen to your body, and then also relying on friends or mentors within the sport. Yeah, if you're looking to succeed, I think that's a recipe for success there." - Jon Green Resources: Atalanta NYC's website Jon's Instagram Ben Rosario's video of Jon at the Olympics Molly's Olympic marathon finish (jump to 3:35) Tina's interview with Mary Cain And in case you were wondering about Jon's ZZ plant… Thank you to Tracksmith, Generation UCAN, and InsideTracker for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston based company that truly cares about the quality of their running clothes. Running can be demanding on our clothes; they definitely go through wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and keep you in mind as a runner, with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more; click here and enter code TINA15. Thank you, Generation UCAN. I have been talking about them for years and they are my ONLY source for fueling while I am training and racing. And without fail, I have a product of UCAN every day, whether it is a Peanut Butter Chocolate Bar or their delicious Cookies and Cream Protein Powder. I am also excited to share with you a NEW product, a gel! Completely fueled with Superstarch and ready to go wherever you are headed off to. Use code TINAUCAN for 20% off of your order. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues, but not really found clear solutions? That is where InsideTracker can come in for you. I have trusted this company for years to help me find what I may be lacking, or if I just need a few tweaks here and there. I count on InsideTracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real.If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will resonate with them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are others are too, and you will help them feel less alone. Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player. Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people. Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe? You can find out here. "Thank you" to Jon. We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join Tina for a together run talking through how she describes her career and what would she be doing if she had not founded Running For Real. This run is unplanned, unscheduled, and as always feels like you are running with a friend. If you enjoy relaxed, conversational runs, but are unable to participate in them right now, this will be for you. Tina asks a few thoughtful questions to keep the listener engaged and thinking about their own lives. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, join Tina for #togetherrun19 We also talk about the virtual Rise Run Retreat coming up September 17-19th, and how much Tina valued the experience of attending in 2015 for the lessons she still uses to this day. With code TINA10 get 10% off your registration when you sign up here. You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Tina mentioned Patreon Rise Run Retreat #TheHumanRace Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

"That's what Circa 95 represents. It's to just be yourself. And it's not only us, it's you, it's everybody that wants to be down with Circa 95." Circa 95 was born when Patty and Reph were trying to figure out how to engage more with their community. As Patty says, "our music is really about the people, it's really about where we come from." The name comes from the decade, which was the golden era of hip hop, and is also a play on the numbers. "Because for us it is our 9 to 5 to do music, art, and culture. This is our lifestyle every day. Everywhere we go, we are Circa 95. We want to make sure that young people don't all of a sudden have to put a suit and tie on and change who they are, that they are accepted for who they are wherever they walk into a room." "We don't want to leave this world with an empty backpack." Society tells us that if we have a passion, we have to focus on it to the exclusion of our other interests. Patty and Reph disagree. "We don't have to compartmentalize ourselves as human beings," Patty says. "We're all born with a backpack that's empty, but we want to fill it with the skills and the things that we love that carry us through our lives." "We planted those seeds and now look, boom, it's like we have a full garden." Running crews have played an important role in building community in city neighborhoods. In New York, even when they couldn't run together during the pandemic, members asked themselves, "How can we support each other? How can we continue building throughout the boroughs? And that's still going on to this day, we're still connecting with each other, we're still supporting each other, and we're showing up for each other." It took time, but the city is filled with running crews now. "There's a little Bolt in every neighborhood, Mo Farah everywhere, there's a Sha'Carri in every block." There's so much untapped potential in many neighborhoods, and Patty and Reph want to help kids realize their talent. "We want to get the kids off the block that's like chilling on the corner. Like those are the kids that we want running." They've succeeded; some of the kids who started running with them have gone on to complete marathons. "You know for Lena Horne to have lived there, Paul Robeson, you know what I mean? Running by those buildings where they would have come out of, it's like we are the artists now, but they were the artists of that time." Running enables you to see the spaces around you in a new light. For Reph and Patty, it's been a way to learn about landmarks that are important to them as people of color. It's a way to connect with your neighborhood's history, and by extension, your own. "Try to say 'yes' more to the things that you're scared of, try to say 'yes' more to the things that make you nervous, and get into those feelings and work them out and challenge them." You have to be open to opportunities, willing to connect in different ways, and believe that you have everything that you need to succeed. "Imagine that the world is conspiring to make everything happen that you want, right? That the world is on your side, that you have everything in your disposal even though you might not think so." "Running reminds me every day that I'm in my own race, that I'm in my own pace and I do not have to chase anyone. I only have to chase me." Comparing yourself to others is usually a recipe for failure. As a runner, it can mean being injured when you push yourself too hard trying to keep up with someone else, or being angry with yourself for not being "fast enough" or "good enough." You have to let go of your ego, and remember that "they're just running their race and you have to run your own." "We're trying to keep it real as much as possible and real with ourselves, real with the world around us, real with Tracksmith, with running communities. It's all real and that's what we strive for, reality. The good, the bad, everything in between." Resources: Circa 95's website Circa 95's Instagram Patty's Instagram Reph's Instagram Circa 95's Facebook Thank you to Athletic Greens, goodr, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good, as well. Go here to get a FREE year supply of Liquid Vitamin D and five FREE travel packs with your subscription. I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with co-founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the Planet. Go here for 15% off your order. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars! I have had a few people from the Picky Bars company on the podcast and

"It makes Toy Story look like an afterthought, literally." There are plenty of running movies, most - if not all! - of which have runners as the main characters. What if the running shoes were the stars? Tommie has an idea for a film from a decidedly unique perspective. If this becomes the biggest movie of all time, remember, you heard about it here first! "This feels really good on my body, but it feels great on the spirit." Determined to qualify for the Boston Marathon, Tommie kept training even after his intended qualifying race was cancelled because of Covid 19. His single-minded focus led to overtraining and a tibial stress fracture that took him out of running for months. He turned to yoga to stay in shape, "and that was like this kind of gateway to 'oh, this feels really good on my body, but it feels great on the spirit.'" The rabbit hole of YouTube led him to meditation videos, and when he was able to run again, he decided to bring mindfulness to running and to the rest of his life. "I'm not saying, don't have a goal and have this burning desire to do something, but the gratitude part in that and taking a step back a little bit from it makes you just kind of prioritize it differently." Tommie never lost his "insane desire to qualify for Boston," but incorporating mindfulness and meditation into his running has "made the whole experience just a much more grateful, gratitude based process." Instead of obsessing on details, he says," if you take a moment to zoom out, you can see this bigger picture, you see the beauty of the whole thing." "Realize you only can control you in this moment. You can't control you tomorrow, you can't control you yesterday, you can only control you right this moment and just live in that and make the best decision, the next right decision." In January 2017, Tommie decided it was time to give a "non-alcohol based lifestyle" a chance. It was the toughest thing he's ever done. He had to find out who he was again, didn't know who a sober Tommie was or could be. About a month into it, he started going to the gym and lifting weights "because I just felt like I just needed to reset and tell my body, 'hey, we do care, don't die on us,' you know?" The next year his sister-in-law suggested that they try a vegetarian diet for a couple of weeks. He agreed, then within a few days went vegan. Giving up alcohol had been a huge energy shift, but veganism was an even bigger boost. "One of these days I'd love for someone's first race experience, especially some person of color, to be like, man, there's so many of us." Tommie had gotten to the point of lifting weights six days a week, and was ready for another challenge. When a client asked him if he'd be interested in running the Chicago Rock and Roll Half Marathon to raise money for Move for Hunger, he said "yes." The experience was cool and fun, but looking back, he wishes that it had been a little more diverse. Not that he felt out of place, but it would be nice, he says, to run in a race where "everyone feels like, hey, this is where we all belong." "2020, it was obviously a crazy year with the pandemic. And it put everything in perspective. It made a lot of people zoom out and say, 'Oh crap, now what's really important here?'" Running became more than something that Tommie did for sobriety, fitness, or health. As he realized that he was running with more people who looked like him, and started talking to more people on Instagram, he began to wonder if he might have something to offer in the sense that people would see what he was doing and try it for themselves. He launched his podcast, The Run Eat Sleep Show, where he has conversations with experts who share advice on running and recovery. "We have to normalize Black bodies in the outdoor space in general." When Tommie goes out with a running group, people are "excited to see people like us out there and doing something positive and it's cool that that happens, but at the same time, if you take a moment, you realize this is kind of crazy because it's not normal yet." Tommie brings authenticity to everything he does, including his podcast. He wants his guests to feel that being there is worth their time, but he's not trying to impress them. He asks the questions that he's interested in because he knows that other people are probably thinking the same things. As he says, "I just try to approach it as just normal as hell, you know?" RESOURCES: Tommie's Instagram The Run Eat Sleep Show Chip Time Running Move for Hunger Thank you to Beam, TrackSmith, and InsideTracker for sponsoring this episode. A new product that I've been trying out is Beam; they help athletes with balance, performance, and recovery. I've used "elevate energy" and "elevate balance" and the flavors were great. I felt that the hydrating electrolyte energy powder, formulated with beetroot, green coffee bean, and citrulline, really helped me and I know they will help you too. Go here and use code TINA for 15 % off your order.

Join Tina for a together run discussing travel goals and hesitations on exploring the world. This run is unplanned, unscheduled, and as always feels like you are running with a friend. If you enjoy relaxed, conversational runs, but are unable to participate in them right now, this will be for you Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, join Tina for #togetherrun18 You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Tina mentioned Patreon Athletic Greens #TheHumanRace Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

We welcome Becs Gentry, marathoner and Peloton Tread and Strength instructor, to the show. This past spring she finished 4th at the UK Olympic Trials while also earning a 5-minute PR. She's also run major races such as the New York City Marathon finishing in the top 20. Becs, who is originally from the UK has since lived in New York City since taking her Peloton position in 2019. "And I'm a huge believer that we should all have pride in any movement we do, whatever sport is your sport, we should take pride in that." - Becs Gentry In this episode we covered... Becs' athletic journey and how she ended up becoming an unsuspecting elite athlete Becs' differing experience as a collegiate athlete in the UK versus in the US Becs' race recap of the UK Olympic Trials and what's coming up for her Finding balance between continuous race training and making space for other future plans The pressure one feels when running at the elite status and how Bec has navigated that "But it's the internal pressure to me makes running less enjoyable. I run because I love to run. I don't run to show other people that I'm good at it." The negative impact comparing your abilities to others can have Resources: Bec's Instagram Peloton Thank you to Athletic Greens, Goodr, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and while I was breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Becs, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join Tina for a together run around Austin on her birthday, including a mid run jump into a spring water natural outdoor pool, Barton Springs. This run is unplanned, unscheduled, and as always feels like you are running with a friend. If you enjoy relaxed, conversational runs, but are unable to participate in them right now, this will be for you Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, join Tina for #togetherrun17 You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

It's a pleasure to welcome Verna Volker on the show. She is an ultrarunner, Hoka Global Ambassador, and the founder of Native Women Running, a space to celebrate and lift up native women's stories. Verna is also a part of Native Women's Wilderness, a platform that shares and elevates native women's stories exploring the outdoors. Verna is currently training for the Javelina 100K in October and the Black Canyon 40K in February. "I wanted to to make a difference where people were seeing native women in a positive light that we are matriarchs, that we are leaders in our families, that we are successful." - Verna Volker n this episode we cover… How she has taken responsibility as a leader to bring communities together and call them to action. "Getting up and doing what you can, is a celebration…" Verna speaks to the importance of holding onto a lens of gratitude in everything we do Being an agent of change to shift the perception of what mainstream media dictates a runner looks like What she has done to bring awareness to the mass graves of indigenous children found in Canada How Verna has used her virtual events to connect and support indigenous running communities in Canada and beyond. Resources: Native Women Running (events) Native Women Running IG Verna Volker IG Native Women Wilderness (website) Native Women Wilderness IG Thank you to Tracksmith, Generation UCAN, and InsideTracker for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. Thank you Generation UCAN, I have been talking about them for years and my ONLY source for fueling while I am training and racing. And without fail I have had a product of UCAN every day, whether it is a peanut butter chocolate bar or their delicious cookies and cream protein powder. I am also excited to share with you a NEW product, a gel! Completely fueled with superstarch and ready to go wherever you are headed off to. Use code TINAUCAN for 20% off of your order. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but not really finding clear solutions? That is where Insidetracker can come in for you. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. I have trusted this company for years to help me show where I may be lacking and or if I just need a few tweeks here and there. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Verna, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Marathon training season is here. Tina shares her training plan and advice for runners prepping for a marathon this fall. In this 30, 45 minute or 60 run with 2-6 strides, Tina starts as always, with a body scan, senses check-in, and moves into a natural, enjoyable conversation. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, part workout, join Tina for the latest together run. Thank you to UCAN for sponsoring this episode. I have used UCAN for many years now, and now we are back in summer, I am loving UCAN protein powder in my smoothies and simply in milk post-run. I also take UCAN energy on my trail runs and long runs. By purchasing UCAN you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINAUCAN for 20% off everything on their website You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Excited to welcome Beth Pascall on the show, who just finished 7th overall and first woman at the 2021 Western States endurance race. She placed a record as second fastest female ever on the 100-mile run with a time of 17 hours, 10 minutes, and 41 seconds. Beth is a British pediatrician and took time off from her job as a doctor and spent 10 weeks in the US training for Western States. Beth even got married a few days after her Western States finish. Beth also recently won the Canyons 100K and holds the FKT for the Bob Graham Round with a time of 14 hours and 34 minutes. "The mental preparation is just important as a physical preparation." –Beth Pascall In this episode we cover… The logistics Beth had to go through for training for Western States, the actual race, her wedding right after the race, and her work as a pediatrician. How trying different sports helps you in athletic performance. For Beth it was trying rowing, cycle touring and triathlon, until she found ultra-endurance running. "I don't think I ever really believed I could Western States until 2018 when I got picked." The importance of confidence. "I came to realize that I thought my confidence was affecting my results because I truly never thought I could do well in a race. Just having people around me that really believed in me and gave me that confidence." She's done 250-mile distances which add the sleep deprivation element into it "It's possible to keep going and also learning to listen to your body, that way you'll know what it feels like when you need to back off." Resources: Beth Pascal Instagram Beth Pascal Website Beth Pascal Twitter Beth Pascal's Interview at Western States Thank you to BEAM, Generation UCAN, and Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode. A new product that I have been trying out is Beam. Where they try to help athletes with balance, performance, and recovery. Now I have tried performance and balance and the flavors were great and I felt the hydrating electrolyte energy powder formulated with beetroot, green coffee bean, and citrulline really helped me and I know they will help you too. Go here use code TINA for 15 % off your order. Thank you Generation UCAN, I have been talking about them for years and my ONLY source for fueling while I am training and racing. And without fail I have had a product of UCAN every day, whether it is a peanut butter chocolate bar or their delicious cookies and cream protein powder. I am also excited to share with you a NEW product, a gel! Completely fueled with superstarch and ready to go wherever you are headed off to. Use code TINAUCAN for 20% off of your order. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Beth, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

The best running tips, marathon training advice, and lessons learned from 2:36 marathon runner Tina Muir. Helping you achieve your running goals and dreams. On this running podcast, you will learn from sports psychologists, nutritionists, scientists, runn

Malcolm Gladwell is known as one of the biggest creative thinkers and voices of our time. We feel incredibly fortunate to have him join us for this episode, which we recorded live and in-person from his studio in New York. Malcolm is also a runner and most recently ran the open mile at the final event of the Trials of Miles series by Citius Mag with Chris Chavez. Malcolm is the author of five New York Times Bestsellers, including Outliers, Tipping Point, and Talking to Strangers. Malcolm recently published his latest book, The Bomber Mafia. After recording the podcast with him, Tina, Knox, and Maria joined him on a run along the Hudson Valley. In this episode we cover… Malcolm's story as a runner who stopped after age 16 and picked it back up again at age 50. Mile race against Chris Chavez in an attempt to break a 5-minute mile. "Being mediocre is much more enjoyable much more fun than being at the top being at the front. mediocrity brings freedom." The story of how he found joy in running again after finding a track club where everyone would enthusiastically say they were a mediocre track club and that was its greatest charm. "It was the most incredibly open and it is the most incredibly open and accepting culture that I've ever encountered. Nobody cares what you do, how rich you are, if you're skinny or overweight, and they don't care whether you run nine-minute miles. I never, in my running universe had known a world of running where nobody cares, and we're all just having fun." I wasted 34 years of running because I didn't understand that the beautiful notion that it doesn't matter. On being wrong: "I quite enjoy the feeling of being wrong because I really love, I love the revision. Discovering you're wrong is one of life's pleasures because it's it is that it's the way you open the door to real knowledge and backtracking is also a pleasure because you get to start over like what's better than that? Like it's like you know, all of the things it's this invitation to rethink something." On truth: a conversation about Mary Cain and Alberto Salazar. On the distinction between discipline and toughness. "I think running builds discipline and discipline is more important than toughness. The idea that somebody has been a runner (discipline) is it is important because it tells me something about their willingness to tackle, in a persistent focused manner, a complex task that's super useful to me. I don't need to know whether they can run 100 miles (toughness). On the importance of a diverse team: "The reason we try to pursue a diverse workforce is we think it makes it's not because we think it looks better or we're fulfilling some kind of social function because we think it makes the work better." When he was hiring for a podcast producer, a woman named Mia's first thing she said in the interview. "If you guys do your show on these ideas, no woman will ever listen to revisionist history." And I was like, oh really, we need to hire you. So we did. Resources: Malcolm Instagram Malcolm's Website Revisionist History Thank you to Athletic Greens, Goodr, and Insidetracker for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal while pregnant. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but not really finding clear solutions? That is where Insidetracker can come in for you. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. I have trusted this company for years to help me show where I may be lacking and or if I just need a few tweeks here and there. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel

Reflecting back on the past year and what we have learned. In this 30, 45 minute or 60 run with 2-6 strides, Tina starts as always, with a body scan, senses check in, and conversation. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, part run, join Tina for a fun, thought-provoking together run. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

In this conversation with Mary, we go beyond touching on her Nike Oregon Project experience and her New York Time Article, I was the Fastest Girl in America Until I joined Nike. We get to learn from Mary about how she found a new relationship with running and how we can all be a little gentler on ourselves. We hear about her new non-profit, Atlalanta NYC that she's launching, while working with Tracksmith and the New York Road Runners. We hear Mary's wise wisdom on life, the future of running, and being yourself. In this episode we cover… Atlalanta NYC, Mary's latest creation– the first professional team in New York City. It's the first of it's kind doing community service work within the broader New York City area, serving as mentors to younger female girls and bringing on a team of professional women to help make the sport a better place for everybody. Outcome-based models of success versus growth-based models of success. Thinking about our lives and running with a growth mindset instead of being attached to an outcome allows us to blossom as individuals. On the importance of being okay with change. "It's okay for things to change with time. We're all learning, we're all growing in, our society is changing with time. Change is a really beautiful and positive thing and growth should never be treated as a dangerous thing." Her analogy of pretending to run with an egg in your hand will help you feel more relaxed and help you be a better runner. The more you hold on tight and clench your fist, the more likely you're going to break and burn out early. She shares the key is to relax and hold it gently for the majority of your race, then on the last 400 meters you can drop the egg and finish strong. Mary's interview was so special in that it was such an intimate atmosphere for a live podcast and she really embodies what Running for Real stands for, being real and being yourself. Resources: Mary Cain IG Atlalanta NYC Rich Roll and Mary Cain Thank you to Tracksmith, Picky Bars, and Beam for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. A new product that I have been trying out is Beam. Where they try to help athletes with balance, performance, and recovery. Now I have tried performance and balance and the flavors were great and I felt the hydrating electrolyte energy powder formulated with beetroot, green coffee bean, and citrulline really helped me and I know they will help you too. Go here use code TINA for 15 % off your order. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Mary, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Processing a life changing trip to New York, including behind the scenes information about what it was like to interview Malcolm Gladwell. In this 30, 45 minute or 60 run with 2-4 strides, Tina reflects on what she learned in New York and some of the highlights from her time in Beacon and New York City. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, part run, join Tina for a fun, thought provoking together run. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Lisa Rivera has a heart for community and it beats with a love of running. She is not only a runner and pacer with Harlem Run, but is a social worker working in child welfare, a veteran, a mentor, and a sponsored athlete with Gu Energy. She reminds us of the importance of surrounding yourself with people and experiences who challenge you and make you a better person. She embodies the ripple effect of bettering yourself and uplifting around you. Even if you don't notice the changes at first, she talks about the importance of keeping your strength up because you never know who you are inspiring. "Trail running, run-walking, hiking. If you're an athlete, you don't have to look a certain way. You don't have to be running by many miles. You are still a freaking athlete and people need to understand that and acknowledge that." –Lisa Rivera In this episode we cover… What growth means and how we experience it. It could be conversations with friends, a session with a therapist. It could be listening to motivational speeches, listening to a podcast, or having a conversation with a friend. It's about self-awareness and continuing to evolve into your best and most authentic self. Lisa's experience as a run-walker and her encouragement for more people like her to join in on running. " I want them to see, I look like you too. I am like you, I come from your communities." She's running the TransRockies Run in Colorado in August and is doing the three day challenge through Google. She'll be running her first ultra of 60 miles on the trails. We learn about the group, Harlem Run and why it's a great group for strengthening the running community in Harlem. "The first time with Harlem Run community was just amazing, they stayed with me, I felt seen, I felt heard I felt supported and safe the whole time," Lisa said. She shared that people there told jokes and gave advice like maybe not running in cotton socks. It was a great experience as a new runner and now is part of her every-week running training. Resources: Instagram Lisa Rivera Harlem Run Thank you to Athletic Greens, Goodr, and InsideTracker for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but not really finding clear solutions? That is where Insidetracker can come in for you. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. I have trusted this company for years to help me show where I may be lacking and or if I just need a few tweeks here and there. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Lisa, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join Tina on a trip down memory lane. In this 30, 45 minute or 60 run with 2-4 strides, Tina runs through Big Rapids, Michigan, a town she spent five years in. Tina reflects on some of the most meaningful memories from her days at Ferris State, as well as some regrets, and moments that changed her trajectory. Part meditation, part reflection, part check in, part run, join Tina for a fun, emotional together run. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

When it comes to finding synergy between running and our core selves, Kriste Peoples has found it. As a meditation and mindfulness teacher, running coach, avid trail runner, and outdoor guide, Kriste helps us all use running as a tool to feel more present in the hustle and bustle of life. Kriste is a leader in inspiring women to pursue adventure in the outdoors while maintaining a grounding presence within themselves. "When we're running we're invited to pay attention to what's going on in your body and opens us up to deeper connections with the people we are with. It also allows us to come back more relaxed and refreshed to be better people in our relationships at home and have more compassion for others." –Kriste Peoples In this episode we cover… Exploring the parallels between our running practice and meditation practice. How you can cut through the noise and narrow down the core of what mindful running means to you. Redefining what meditation looks like for you. It doesn't have to be a solitary space or rock garden. It can be those 5 breaths you take when you feel flustered while heading out the door with a mug in one hand, a child in the other, your tote bag on your shoulder and shoes in the other arm. "You can catch yourself in a moment. Just breathe five seconds now. You would be very hard pressed not to have five seconds in your day. If you don't have five seconds, you've got bigger problems than not being able to meditate." We need connection in America right now. Running has the power to heal and bring a healing presence to those who are united by it. The ways we can look back at our lives and reframe moments and redefine what they mean to us. Resources: Kriste's Website Instagram @KristePeoples Thank you to Athletic Greens, Picky Bars, and Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Kriste, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join guest Together Run host and Running For Real Superstar member, David Skytte for a 30 or 45 minute run with 2-4 strides. David begins the run with a few warm up exercises, followed by a body and mind check in. He leads us through an exploration of our five senses and gives us something to think about. Part meditation, part run, join David for a fun together run. You can support Running For Real and these together runs continuation through a monthly donation on Patreon. To sign up, click here. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Physical health and mental health go hand in hand. As a high school and later a college athlete, Emma Abrahamson shares about her habits as a competitive athlete and how they led to a decline in physical and mental health, but also her story of unearthing a well-balanced lifestyle that not only helps in performance but keeps her body and mind happy. Emma followed a different path after college, as she started a Youtube Channel blogging about the running world. She's someone who is shedding light on many issues athletes face with regards to body image, physical health, and mental health. She also has a popular food Instagram, One Crazed Foodie, a line of nutrition bars Crazed Foods, and her own podcast, Convos Over Coldbrew. "I feel confident in who I am as a human being not as what I look like. I feel, even though my body is bigger or different, I just feel so much more confident in my body." –Emma Abrahamson In this episode we cover… Looking after your body and overcoming amenorrhea/RED-S How you can take a moment of boredom and make something out of it! Emma shares how she started her Youtube channel as a simple vlog with her iPhone and it grew steadily. Body image as she shares how her college self thought about her body and now how she has evolved to be more accepting. Culture change within high school and college sports with regards to mental health and body image. What causes the disconnection between your body and your period. Emma shares how getting out of shape helped her mental health. Importance of surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, because they're the ones who will help encourage you to know yourself and keep living a healthy lifestyle. Resources One Crazy Foodie on Instagram. Emma's personal Instagram @emmaabrahamson Crazed Foods nutrition bars Convos Over Coldbrew podcast Thank you to Athletic Greens, Goodr, and Insidetracker for sponsoring this episode. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but not really finding clear solutions? That is where Insidetracker can come in for you. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. I have trusted this company for years to help me show where I may be lacking and or if I just need a few tweeks here and there. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Emma, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

On this bonus episode we welcome Chase Jarvis, founder of Creative Live and author of Creative Calling. Co-hosting this conversation alongside Tina is Running for Real team member, Maria Vargas, a longtime follower of Chase's work. Together, the three of us dive into the topic of creativity and how it is interwoven into all that we do, including sports. In this episode we cover… Exercising the muscle of creativity and being intentional in practicing it same ways we practice physical exercise. Simplifying the complex. Creative Live takes a complex topic such as photography and making it easier for regular people to understand and learn. Running for Real takes a complex topic like running and makes it more relatable. On the way creativity empowers us to shape our own lives and environments. Similar to how running changes your body or starting a business changes your mind, creativity give us agency. Create before you consume. –Marie Forleo Beginnings hide themselves in endings. Chase shares the story of Best Camera App ending and Creative Live beginning. Creativity is connecting seemingly disconnected things in a new way. A dive into Chase's book, Creative Calling and how we can use it as a toolkit to design our best lives. Resources Chase Jarvis Instagram @chasejarvis Creative Live Creative Calling (book) Limited edition shoe collaboration with K-Swiss called 'The Creator' and are designed with diverse, creative lifestyles in mind. They're irreverent, a bit wild without being overstyled. Road tested for utility. Thank you to Tracksmith, Picky Bars, and Insidetracker for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but not really finding clear solutions? That is where Insidetracker can come in for you. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. I have trusted this company for years to help me show where I may be lacking and or if I just need a few tweeks here and there. I count on Insidetracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off as a special for Running for Real listeners on their ENTIRE store. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Chase, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join me for a 30, 45, 60 minute run with 2-4 strides. We start with a check in with our body and mind, check in with our five senses, and then a conversation. In this episode, I talk through a difficulty I have been working through in my life, and talk about the awkwardness of social media sharing when someone sees you doing it. Part meditation, part run, all Tina. Would love for you to join me. Thank you to UCAN for sponsoring this episode. I have used UCAN for many years now, and now we are back in summer, I am loving UCAN protein powder in my smoothies and simply in milk post run. I also take UCAN energy on my trail runs and long runs. By purchasing UCAN you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINAUCAN for 20% off everything on their website Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Joining this episode is Zach Bitter, an ultra-marathoner, endurance athlete, and coach. We dive into human performance during long stretches of endurance sports, how to wrap our heads around discomfort and touch distances, and the science behind gear like arm sleeves and their benefits doing long ultras. Zach is the 100 Mile World Record Holder (11 hours 19 minutes 13 seconds), 12 Hour World Record Holder(104.88miles), has 9th Fastest Time Recorded on the JFK 50 Mile Course, and is a three time National Champion (50mile x2 and 100km). We deep dive into the inner mind of Zach and how he is able to take extremely long distance races and break them down into manageable training plans and mindset training. In this episode we cover… Different types of fatigue: mental and physical Training for a road race vs trail race and how pacing works with each, as well differences in recovery for each. How your body handles hard surfaces during road races compared to the uneven terrain of trails and how your body mechanics are different. Training cycles throughout the seasons (from extreme cold to extreme heat) and how you transition between them and begin anew with each season. Training gear- learning about shoes like Altras which have zero drop and toe boxes, to hearing about how arm sleeves generate a cooling effect (for hot runs) and a warming effect (for cold runs) Resources: Human Performance Outliers Podcast Zach Bitter Website Zach's Instagram Thank you to Momentous, Tracksmith, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep. Go here and use code TINA for 20% off. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Zach, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join me for a 30 or 45 minute run in St Louis. We start with a check-in with our body and mind, take in all our senses, and then have a conversation. I answer the question about which sport I would do if I was not a runner, and then reflect on the other sports I have committed to during my life. What would you do if running wasn't an option? And what other sports have you enjoyed in life? I also talk a little about working with brands and the discomfort that comes from both sides. How irritating it is to see people online who are exploiting other people with the products they push. Part meditation, part run, all Tina. Would love for you to join me. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Bravery. Courage. Strength. Vulnerability. Our guest today is Angela Pohl, one of our own Running for Real community members. She shares with us the story of her breast cancer diagnostic and treatment journey as she gets ready for a double mastectomy surgery on June 11. There's so much we can all learn from Angela, starting with her admirable mindset. From her, we learn how we can use our runner's attitude of courage and determination as tools to aid us in some of life's hardest challenges. "I had been chronicling my whole running journey for a couple of years now, and just all of the learnings that I've had through that, the mental training and all the progress that I made through that I decided that I was going to be very open about sharing my breast cancer journey as well because it's a chapter of my running journey or my overall journey." –Angela Pohl During 2020, Angela ran 55 half marathons, 13 full marathons, and was training for a 100-mile ultra when she got diagnosed with breast cancer. In this episode, she helps us cover… Importance of self-checks and mammograms- even if you believe yourself to be a healthy runner or athlete. Don't put things off. First it was COVID hesitation to not go to the doctor's office, then it was a marathon training cycle putting off doctor's visits until she finally went. There's always something going on, but checkups are important. Don't put them off. "Not everybody who goes through a cancer journey wants to be seen as a fighter or battling or warrior. Some people are on a healing journey. They feel that the cancer is part of their body, so they don't want to fight their own body. They might not want to use that kind of metaphor just because has some kind of violence, you know, associated with it. For me it's kind of a journey. I'm a race addict. And so I thought it would be kind of fun if you can call this fun at all to, you know, pretend that this is a whole race that I'm going through, and it's probably more like a multi-leg ultra marathon." "That is something that I learned from running about how to stay in the mile that you're in, not, look all the way down at the results will start worrying about that because you just need to take it one mile at a time." Angela learned that exercise is good while you're going through chemotherapy. Even just going on a walk. Angela co-founded a non-profit, Good Running, in 2016. Each month the group of runners selects a non-profit and donate $20 directly to the organization. They also gather raffle prizes and runners get a raffle ticket for every mile they run or walk. It's all about runners doing good, together. Resources: Angela's Instagram: @goodrunning26.2 (Message her some words of kindness and encouragement) GoodRunning.org Sarah Canney's Rise Run Retreat Thank you to Momentous, Athletic Greens, and goodr for sponsoring this episode. Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep. Go here and use code TINA for 20% off. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. AND for my UK and Canadian friends, you can participate in this deal as well, so take advantage! Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook,

In this episode, we run along a quiet trail near St Louis. If you are missing nature around you, this run will be a perfect way to check in with your body. Part meditation, part run, all Tina. Would love for you to join me. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Sika Henry is proof that we can speak our goals into existence. If there's anyone who exemplifies persistence and determination, it's Sika. After years of training, a serious bike, crash, and even a pandemic, in May 2021 Sika became the first U.S. Black Female Professional Triathlete. In this episode, Sika shares how she started as a college walk-on, to the workaholic life in New York City, to then come back to sports as a marathoner, and now a triathlete. "I believe in speaking things into existence. No matter how crazy it sounds, just put it out there. The worst that can happen is it doesn't happen. And then so what, even if you feel embarrassed by it, it's like, who cares? At least you had the guts to attempt it and go after it." –Sika Henry In this episode we cover… Sika's childhood and early life as an athlete, she shares how she didn't peak until a few years into college but that she never quit on her dreams. The power of cross training swimming and biking have had on her running abilities. The intensity of triathlon as a sport. She shares that even "recovery days" entail swimming and an easy run. It's intense weeks and weeks of training. Sika opens up about her serious bike crash that landed her in the hospital and put a pause on her dreams of becoming a professional triathlete. It was with encouragement that she got back on her feet. She knew becoming pro would be a huge step in Triathlon for her to be an example for younger generations and represent inclusivity and diversity in the sport that only until last month didn't have a black woman as a professional athlete in the United States. She shares that only 0.5% of the sport is made up of Black people and that 64% of Blacks lack basic swimming skills. Sika shares the importance of supporting organizations that are making strides in aquatics and swimming accessibility. Organizations Sika recommends: Diversity in Aquatics and Black Kids Swim Resources Instagram @sikahenry Sika's Website and blog Strava Article Thank you to Momentous, Tracksmith, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep. Go here and use code TINA for 20% off. Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15. I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Sika, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join me for a 30 or 45 minute run with 2-4 strides. We start with a check in with our body and mind, take in all our senses, and then have a conversation. In this episode, I answer Elizabeth's question about my most challenging race. I talk about the two races I consider to be toughest, one I handled badly, and the other I handled well. If we were running alongside one another, what would you say was your most challenging race? When you upload your photo to social media, be sure to answer that question. Part meditation, part run, all Tina. Would love for you to join me. Thank you to Beam for sponsoring this episode. I am loving using their hydration products during my training. Before, after, and just when I need something to enjoy water. By checking out Beam, you also support me in these podcasts. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website (or get 20% off a subscription). Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

As marathons and full races are starting to come onto the scene again, in this episode we welcome someone who talks about training for and preparing for a marathon, along with fun topics of creating running music playlists and the current rise in podcasting. Matthew Huff is a writer, runner, running playlist extraordinaire, and author of Marathoner: What to Expect When Training for and Running a Marathon. In this episode, Matthew shares about his love of books and how his book about marathoning culture came to life. In this episode we cover… Matthew's new book about a what to expect when training for and running a marathon. He also writes for many of the publications you may know and love, including Buzzfeed and Runner's World. We talk about a love affair with books: "I'm envisioning like in Beauty and the Beast, how she goes into the library. With the ladder that you can climb up and swing around the room on your ladder. But then just imagine that she took all of those books and moved into a New York tiny apartment." The rise of podcasting: "Not everybody can write a book. Not everybody can make a T. V. Show about a topic. But if there's a topic that you're really passionate about, you can probably find one other person who's passionate about that and make a podcast about it. How his new book celebrates the people who run the marathon as well as include pictures, graphics and full color charts with information and training advice for the marathon. There are few books that contain both the training advice and the history and fun facts of running. This new both has both and goes beyond to share the beautiful crazy parts of running and welcomes all types of runners into the sport. We also talk about curating running playlists. Are you a jazz-listening runner or classic rock that puts a spring in your step. Resources: Matt's Instagram Marathoner: What to Expect When Training for and Running a Marathon Runner's World Thank you to Momentous, Athletic Greens, and Goodr for sponsoring this episode. Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep. Go here and use code TINA for 20% off. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I have been a fan of goodr for YEARS and I literally have their sunglasses all over my house. I recently had an episode with the Co-Founder Stephen Lease where he talks about the true and real story behind his company and I appreciate him being honest with me about it. The design behind these sunglasses really takes into consideration look and comfort. They are 100% carbon neutral and a part of 1% for the planet and protect many great organizations who care for our planet deeply. Go here to get 15% off of your order as well as free shipping on your first pair. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Matthew, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

Join me for a workout? After our regular mental and physical check in, we do 5 x 1 minute hard (with 1 minute recovery) together. We check in with our senses and surroundings and wrap up the 30 minute with another check in. The 45 minute group will do an additional 2 x 1 minute in the final 15 minutes. There is no pressure, paces, or expectations here. We are all just doing this for enjoyment and to work hard together. It does not matter what speed or training level you are at, join me for this pickup workout. Would appreciate your thoughts on these workouts. Do you like them more or less than the runs. I may add them in once a month. Part meditation, part run, all Tina. Would love for you to join me. No sponsor for this episode, but I talked about Athletic Greens (you can use this link to get a one year free supply of Vitamin D with your order) and I talked about Beam. You can use code TINA for 15% off everything on their website. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts.

This episode is like eavesdropping on some friends's conversation– we welcome Sabrina Little and Sara Mahoney, two of Tina's close friends. We have a great dynamic between Sara, a professor of exercise physiology and researcher of nutrition and ultra-endurance performance. We also have Sabrina who is a professional ultra runner for Hoka, a philosophy professor and a mom to a 11-month-old. We loved getting to learn about each how each of these worlds– one more scientific and one more philosophical– are intertwined with running. In this episode we cover… How Sabrina's trade of reading things that people have read for hundreds of years helps her ask the questions about what it means to be human. These deep questions we often don't pause to ask, unless we're maybe on the trail or running. Sara shares about FKT's (Fastest Known Times) and how they differentiate from Strava segments which are smaler sections. She says FKTs can be created more of an experience and with more formality. On mental toughness...Sabrina shares that she has researched and written about this topic. "Oftentimes we hear these phrases like, 'no pain, no gain,' or 'pain is weakness leaving the body.' It's indifferent to the kinds of pain that we're talking about. So if we're talking about injury, then no pain no gain is just imprudent, and it's poor stewardship of your body. If we're talking about pain in the way that people often describe discomfort, then that's a kind of edifying pain, but I guess it takes a bit of prudence or experience to know the difference." On knowing your limits…Sara shares, "You don't have to like you don't have to take everything so seriously. And be yeah like you know as you said, it's okay to do it on occasion for like an experience where you're finding your limits but you don't have to do it three times a week every week." See running as a celebration, not as a test to see if you're good enough or worthy enough. We will always good days and bad days, but the important think is to keep working on it over time and move the needle closer to a place of self-love. If you see others doing it, it tells your brain it's possible you can do it too. Resources: Sara Mahoney IG Sabrina Little IG Fastest Known Time Website Thank you to Momentous, Athletic Greens, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode. Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep. Go here and use code TINA for 20% off. Athletic Greens is a simple and easy way to get 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food source ingredients. Just to help my immune system be stronger and greater! It is so simple to make and it tastes good as well. I used this for my prenatal and I am still using it while breastfeeding. Now you can get up to a YEAR supply of Vitamin D3 and K2 for free with your first purchase of Athletic Greens through my podcast. Visit here to learn more! I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options. Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you to Sabrina and Sara, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

As always, we start with mental and physical check ins, assessment of our five senses, and reflection. We spend the second half of the run, I answer Jerry's question about the strategies I have learned, and how I learned to race. What have you learned about how you race best? In the final part, I answer Camilla's question of would I reset my PRs and why or why not. Thank you to BEAM for sponsoring this guided run. Beam hydrate comes with three purposes, balance, performance, and recovery. I used two servings of BEAM performance in my trail race this weekend (which I won outright!) and immediately followed the race up with BEAM recover. These taste delicious and make hydration easy. With summer coming, make sure you are hydrated, use code TINA for 15% off. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.

As always, we start with mental and physical check ins, assessment of our five senses, and reflection. We spend the second half of the run, I answer Jerry's question about the strategies I have learned, and how I learned to race. What have you learned about how you race best? In the final part, I answer Camilla's question of would I reset my PRs and why or why not. Thank you to BEAM for sponsoring this guided run. Beam hydrate comes with three purposes, balance, performance, and recovery. I used two servings of BEAM performance in my trail race this weekend (which I won outright!) and immediately followed the race up with BEAM recover. These taste delicious and make hydration easy. With summer coming, make sure you are hydrated, use code TINA for 15% off. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here. Thank you for joining me, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.