Feel Good Running | For the Everyday Runner!

Hello Runners,

It has been awhile. And I am sorry if you are a regular listener for the gap. It won't happen again! Promise!

I spent most of my energy the past two months as Co-Race Director of the Maui Marathon that was held on Sunday October 13, 2019. I'm glad to say it was a huge success. And then afterward, I took off to Denver, Colorado to visit family, friends and do some Podcast interviews. So I am back in the saddle and you can expect consistency of episodes and some changes for the good! Thank for hanging in!

Man, it is hard to believe that the 2019 running season is just about over. I always consider the NYC Marathon as the finale to the major races. However there are still a few races you can catch through the remainder of the year.

Now, if you ran a race during the fall, I hope you finished and was satisfied with your results. Running is not so much about time, (well maybe to some), but about the journey as you trained for your race and ultimately successfully crossing the finish line on race day. I've have run 101 marathons and not once in all the years did anyone ask me about my time for any of the races, they just asked what race was my favorite. So if you finished, be very proud! People will be impressed of your accomplishment and that you finished but could care less about your time. You are a rockstar!

I'd also like to give a very heartfelt shoutout to all of you who qualified and got into the 2020 Boston Marathon. By adjusting the qualifying times by 5 minutes, I think this helped many more of you to finally get in that qualified. So kudos to the B.A.A. for the adjustment.

My guest this episode is a life changer for me. Jason Romero, is the author of  Running Into the Dark.

Jason has a head spinning running resume. He has completed some of the toughest ultra races such as:

• Badwater 135,
• Leadville Trailrace 100 (and he is a Leadman - Google it),
• Spartathlon (Greece)
• Puerto Rico 150+ Endurance Run.

His biggest accomplishment though and what his book centers around is his incredible journey which was Running across the USA, typically called a "transcontinental" run.

What is most amazing, Jason is legally blind and he did this journey on a shoestring budget with a shoestring crew which mostly consisted of his mom and the help of some friends that just appeared. He ran 3,063 miles in 59.5 days averaging 51.5 miles per day starting in Santa Monica and finishing in New York City.

Jason is the only blind runner to ever run across the USA and he in the top ten of the fastest runners to accomplish this. Less than 300 have accomplished a transcontinental run on foot. Jason's book is amazing and opens up about his life, blindness, struggles, obstacles, failures, setbacks but above all else overcoming it all to be a success! Please pick up his book today either in hardcover, paperback, digital or audio right HERE!

Our conversation is open, raw, honest and emotional. If you want to understand what Jason can see today, Click Here and watch him explain it in this YouTube Video. Meeting Jason I truly believe All Things are Possible! You will also!

Enjoy!

~Jim

Jason Romero

New: March 24, 2020 - Vision Run USA - Re-live the run - A 60 day series of Jason with personal audio recordings, GoPro videos and other things that he recorded back in 2016 when he ran across the USA. Click Here for the link!

Jason's Social Media Links - Personal Website - Speaking Website - Instagram - Facebook - Twitter - Linkedin

Running Into the Dark - Jason's Book on Amazon - Hardcover, Paperback, Digital or Audio -  BUY IT TODAY! 

Running Vision - Documentary about Jason and his efforts to run 183 miles across Puerto Rico

YouTube Video - Jason explains exactly what he can see today

USABA - United States Association of Blind Athletes

Inspirational Running Quote

"Wake Up Every Day and Commit to be Outstanding" ~Jason Romero

Think about this quote every day when you wake up and see what is possible!

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #16 | Jason Romero – All Things are Possible! appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello Runners!

I am pleased to have Bart Yasso, the "Mayor of Running" as my guest this episode. Recently retired from Runner's World after 31 years with the title of Chief Running Officer, he has inspired runners all over the globe.

I've know Bart for several years and I will say that he is one of the most genuine persons that I know. He loves running and the running community. It doesn't matter if you are Meb Keflezighi, 2004 Olympic silver medalist in the marathon, or Judy Smith, beginner runner from North Dakota, you are welcomed by Bart with open arms. And Bart has an amazing resume:

• Ran races in all 7 continents
• Biked Across the USA twice with no support!
• Mt. Kilimanjaro Marathon
• Badwater Ultramarathon 135 (when it was 145 miles)
• 5 time Iron Man finisher
• Comrades 56-mile event
• Inventor of the “Yasso 800’s” marathon predictor workout
• Inducted into the Running USA Hall of Champions
• Inducted into the Road Runners Club of America Distance Running Hall of Fame
• And on and on and on!

Be sure to pick up a copy of Bart's book, My Life on the Run, a fabulous read. It is also available as a download and in audio books. Every single chapter is a great story!

So, as you may know, I am the Co-Race Director for the Maui Marathon which will be held on Sunday, October 13th. It has taken me away from producing my Podcast so there has been a gap. I hope you won't bail on me and hang in there since it appears I am back on track. My goal is to bring you two quality episodes per month. So stick with me! And if you every have any comments, I want to hear them. Send a note to [email protected]. Oh yea, I would be humbled if you could share this podcast with your running friends and on your social media. Without you, the show won't grow

Wow! We are now heading into the fall race season. Where did this year go? For those of you that are doing a fall race regardless of the distance, I hope your summer training has gone well, you have stayed injury free and are fired up and ready for your race! I'm proud of you! We have a great sport that enhances all of us, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Enjoy this episode and remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about your running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening & News Segment

Jim's Maui News Article - Thank you Sarah Ruppenthal!

MS Run the US Relay - Annual 3,260 mile ultra relay created by Ashley Schneider in support of the cure for Multiple Sclerosis.

Nike Joyride Run Flyknit Running Shoes - These interesting Nike Running Shoes are supposed bring back the joy of running? - Review 1, Review 2

Mystery Runner - Runner who gave his running shoes and socks to a homeless person and walked away barefoot. - ABC News Segment speaks to Homeless Person!

Bart Yasso

My Life on the Run - Bart's Book on Amazon - BUY IT TODAY! Excellent Read

Bart's Social Media Links - Website - Instagram - Facebook - Twitter

Legacy of Hope - Bart is running the Rocky steps in Philadelphia for this charity. Bart's CrowdRise fundraising page.

Article's - Runner's World - The Morning Call - Verywell Fit (Yasso 800's -- Christine Luff)

Amy Downs - Bart mentioned her story during the interview. She survived the Oklahoma City Bombing

Bonnie VanDeraa - We talked about Bonnie. I interviewed her in Episode #12. Take a listen to this incredible story!

Inspirational Running Quote

"When the gun goes off we all follow the same path to the finish line but we all have taken very unique paths to get to the starting line" ~Bart Yasso

So think about it...what was your path to the start line? Put your story in the comments!

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #15 | Bart Yasso – The “Mayor of Running!” appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hi Folks (and runners),

On May 8, 2019, a 35 year old woman named Amanda Eller went to the Makawao Forest Reserve hunters trail in Maui Hawaii for a short run or hike. Well as everyone knows, during her hike she veered off the trail for a bit to meditate, closed her eyes to enjoy the peace and serenity of the forest. When she was ready to head back to her car, she ended up on a different trail.

After continuing for about an hour and a half, thinking she was heading in the right direction, she became disoriented. And as we all know now, that took her on a long life or death journey in the forest and she was miraculously found alive 17 days later. All after a long intense and grueling search by local citizens which also captivated the world.

Everyone has seen and heard from Amanda. And the picture of her rescue was seen around the world. Well, this episode is going to give you an entirely new look, a different perspective into the actual search efforts from start to finish.  Elana Pray,Chris Berquist and Javiar Cantellops were the core search team that was formed during the search for Amanda Eller. Chris and Javier were in the helicopter that found her and in the famous photo.

Along with hundreds of volunteers, several with special skills, these three individuals were integral to all phases of the search both at base camp and in the forest searching day after day. There is a law in Maui that the Maui Fire and Police departments can continue a search and rescue effort for 72 hours. After that they scale their involvement way down or discontinue it all together leaving it to the family, friends and volunteers to keep it going. Basically it becomes a do-it-yourself search.

Chris became the overall leader of the search after Amanda's father, John Eller asked him if he would stay through it all. He is a very intelligent, analytical, methodical professional that is extremely passionate about the outdoors. Also, Chris is very selfless, so much so, he put Amanda and the search above all else and even lost his job. Of course, another door opened for him!

Elena is a pure badass and works for Rappel Maui. She became the operations director of the search and rescue, organizing rappellers, search dogs and several other responsibilities. She assisted Chris in providing daily updates. But most of all she was out there rappelling down ravines, canyons and waterfalls just about every day searching for Amanda.

Javier, a former US Army Special Operations Ranger, that knew Amanda, appeared at base camp with one goal and one goal only and that was to find his friend. His amazing positive attitude and motivational skills kept the volunteers and the overall search efforts energized. Every day he was out doing everything from rappelling with Elena, deep diving into dangerous waters, and searching tough terrain with local hunter Troy Helmer, Javier was in the helicopter that found Amanda and it was so appropriate that he was the first one to reach her. By the way Javier works for Maui Dream Dives Company as a professional dive instructor.

This is a very powerful conversation. It is the first time together, they are able to fully tell their story and is especially captivating as they discuss the day they found her.

I'm so honored and grateful that they all came on Feel Good Running and shared their amazing story. I assume there will be many non-runners that will be interested in listening to this episode do to the subject and our guests. So welcome all new listeners and of course our regular listeners. Please share this episode with all your friends, family and on social media. It is an episode that everyone will take something away for the better.

Just a few nights before this podcast was released, there was a Ceremony of Application for the volunteers of the search here on Maui. It was a wonderful event and I had the opportunity to meet Amanda and her mother Julia. They are very wonderful people. I said to Amanda, "I'm really glad that you were found." And she responded with a simple smile and in a quiet voice said, "Me Too!"  

There are links below and I will add to them as they become available. So check back every so often. Enjoy the episode!

~Jim

Links

UPDATE: Amanda Eller One Year Later - Dateline NBC (5-21-20)

Eller Family Message - Message from the Eller Family to address community concerns and clarify rumors.

Find Amanda - Facebook Page

Javier Cantellops - Facebook Page

Chris Berquist - Facebook Page

Elena Pray - Facebook Page

Rappel Maui 

Maui Dream Dives Co

Outsider Magazine Article - Best article about the search and rescue and also focuses on Noah "KeKai" Mina.

Today - Article and Video Clips

Various Video News Clips -CNN (Javier Cantellops), Today Show - (Sarah Haynes and Javier Cantellops), Today Show (Chris Berquist, Javier Cantellops & Troy Helmer)

NEVER GIVE UP! EVER! MIRACLES DO HAPPEN!

The post FGR #14 | The Amanda Eller Maui Rescue – Core Search Team Unplugged! appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

Summer is just about here! From what I have heard it has been a long winter on the mainland so all you runners should be ecstatic! You can now wear your running shorts and a short sleeve shirt and just head out the door. Nice! Remember, it does get hot and humid so drink your fluids, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated.

Most of the spring races are over. There are a few summer marathons and smaller races to enjoy and is a great way to keep your running in check during the summer months . Many of you may be already training for fall races. One thing I remember about summer when I lived on the mainland, it goes by fast. So enjoy the entire summer months. Do all the things you love to do, spend a lot of time outside and most important keep running for sure.

Maui has made the national news recently. If you listened to my last episode, it was about 8 days into the search for missing runner/hiker Amanda Eller. I did not sound optimistic of the outcome since she left her phone, keys, purse, backpack and water in her car. And she was presumed lost in the Makawao Forest Reserve. So many rumors, theories, opinions were discussed daily. And honestly, I really thought the outcome would not be good, especially due to the length of time she was out there or possibly abducted.

So many volunteers gave up their time to search for Amanda. And the leaders of the search team quickly formed and did an outstanding job organizing the search efforts. They never gave up, they never gave up hope and were there day after day searching along with 50 to 100 volunteers. And then 17 days later Amanda was found alive. A very uplifting story of human strength and determination from all ends.

On the other end, another gentleman was missing in IAO Valley here on the island. Noah "KeKai" Mina went to the IAO forest to do some reflecting and did not return. After the search was successfully completed for Amanda, the search team leaders shifted to IAO Valley in search of KeKai. Well, that did not turn out well. They found him deceased. Very sad ending. And somewhat personal for me. I know KeKai's mom Irene who has helped us out at the Maui Marathon heading up an Aid Station and supplying the food for the finish line through Maui's Farmers Union. I feel sad for Irene and the entire family. And may KeKai be at peace.

So, I am working on a Feel Good Running Episode with three of the main Search Team Leaders. You probably have seen them in the news during the recovery at some point. We will discuss both Amanda and KeKai searches and how they came together to organize the search and what, in their opinion, made it so effective.

Any runner or hiker can get lost in a forest/woods environment and this episode will give a great amount of information to help others organize a search team and have a plan. They will also provide good information if you are going on a solo run or hike in the forest or woods and what to take with you and precautions you can take to prevent getting lost. And if you do happen to get lost, what to do to survive and recommendations so that a search and rescue team, whether the fire or police or private citizens, may find you much faster. Look for this episode by the middle of July!

I am so excited for you to meet this episodes guest. Matthew Thayer is the Photojournalist for the Maui News, the newspaper on Maui. And he has held this job for the past 39 years. Matt is also a published author with his 5 book Si-Fi series 30,000 B.C. Chronicles. He is also a good friend and we have some interesting history. You will need to listen to our conversation to find that out.

Sometimes I will drift away from running on this podcast. So though Matt and I talk about running, we also talk a lot about Maui which you will enjoy. And we discuss Journalism and how it has evolved over the years. Matt also talks about his highlight story that happened in 1988 and his coverage of the "miracle landing" of Aloha Airlines flight 243. The top of the fuselage ripped off and one Flight Attendant was sucked out. The plane landed and all with the exception of the flight attendant survived. Matt took the photos and has an interesting story behind it. His photo was recognized internationally.

Folks I really rely on your feedback on how you like this Podcast and any suggestions you may have to make it better. What would you like to hear? Who would you like me to talk to? How can I bring information that you want and need regarding running. Or maybe just another topic you would enjoy. You can click on the orange tab to the right and leave a voice message up to 3 minutes. And if you like tell us about your story or a running accomplishment. We may just include it in an upcoming episode.

And as always, I can always use your help by sharing the Podcast with your running friends and through Social Media. And also important is to leave a review on Apple Podcast! Reviews help tremendously to increase exposure for the show and attracts new listeners. Right now I do this Podcast out of love of running and have no sponsors nor form of monetization of this show. So, the more you can share it with others, it will be truly appreciated.

Enjoy Episode #13 with Matt Thayer... And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

News Segment

Jon Sutherland - Running Streak - Every day for 50 Years - Runners World Article - Heather Adams Writer/Nate Abbott Photography.

Matthew Thayer

Matt's Facebook Page

Maui News - Newspaper of Maui On-Line

30,000 B.C. Chronicles - Matt's Published 5-Book Series - Amazon Order Link

Matthew Thayer Photography

Aloha Airlines Flight 243

Inspirational Running Quote

"I Love Running Because It's The One Thing I Do Every Day And Never Regret" - Katie Mackey

I don't run every single day but every run I do I never regret! Never!

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #13 – Matthew Thayer – Maui News Photojournalist & Author appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

Well it is the middle of May and I am late getting out a fresh episode of Feel Good Running. There is a reason though! I was traveling!

The annual Bloomsday Run in Spokane, Washington was held on Sunday, May 5th and we were there at their two day expo promoting the Maui Marathon which by the way will be held on Sunday October 13th. This is an annual anticipated event in Spokane that is now in its 43rd year. This 12K run attracts 40,000 runners and walkers and is the 4th largest run in the USA. It was started in 1977 by Don Kardong and after all those years this will be his last as Race Director. I had a chance to do a quick interview with him and also some vendors and participants while at the expo.

And...yours truly ended up running Bloomsday this year and I will say this was one amazing event very well organized and super fun. It was a challenging but great course and I conquered "Doomsday Hill" in which you gain 120 feet of elevation in less than three quarters of a mile. Of course the after party held downtown Spokane was fun and I spent a little time in the beer tent. As for Spokane, the city is wonderful and the people are very friendly. I hope you will have the chance year to do this fine running event.

On Maui we have a missing woman. Her name is Amanda Eller and she is 35 years old and is a Physical Therapist and Yoga Instructor. She went for either a run or hike at the Makawao Forest Reserve on Wednesday May 8th and has not been found as of the release of this podcast. If by chance you are on Maui and have any information please call Detective Dennis Clifton at 808-244-6433. And you can contact her friend Sarah who is tracking all leads by either calling or texting. Her number is 415-336-4591. We are all hoping that she will be found alive and safe.

Ladies please take time to listen to Feel Good Running Podcast Episode #9. Tasha Ina Church is a Self Defense instructor and during our conversation there are many tips and suggestions for self defense and female running safety. She even has a on-line course. Worth a listen to give you a better chance to stay safe in uncomfortable or dangerous situations.

Sometimes, there is a story so inspiring that it will bring you to your knees. My guest this episode has this story and her name is Bonnie VanDeraa from Vinita Oklahoma. On January 23, 2018, Bonnie went through a horrific event that in a respect should have killed her. Her training and skill as a EMT along with her willpower, strength and courage allowed her to survive. Bonnie is a runner and though she has not been able to run since that day, she can walk and on March 3, 2019, walked the entire Little Rock Marathon.  After my conversation with Bonnie I have no doubt she will run again!

While recovering in the hospital, she was given the nickname "Wonder Woman" and believe me she lives up to that name! You do not want to miss this interview. It will change the way you approach your day and your life for that matter.

As always, thank you for listening to the Feel Good Running Podcast. I appreciate you. And your feedback is so welcome. You can click on the orange tab to the right and leave a voice message up to 3 minutes. Let us know how you like the show or tell us about your story or a running accomplishment. We may just include it in an upcoming episode.

And as always, I can always use your help by sharing the Podcast with your running friends and through Social Media. And also important is to leave a review on Apple Podcast! Reviews help to increase exposure for the show and attracts new listeners. Right now I do this Podcast out of love of running and have no sponsors nor form of monetization of this show. So, the more you can share it with others, it will be truly appreciated.

Enjoy Episode #12... And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening & News Segment

Bloomsday Run - Spokane, Washington - First Sunday in May

"Doomsday Hill" - Toughest hill on the Bloomsday course!

Don Kardong - Bloomsday Run - Race Director - Article

Fleet Feet - Spokane, Washington - Owners: Wade and Julie Pannell - You can shop online!

Sweet Spot Skirts - Made in the USA - Email -Stephanie Lynn, Owner/Designer

Roast House Coffee - Spokane, Washington - Coffee Stores - You can order on-line and this is really darn good coffee!

Missing on Maui

Amanda Eller - 35 years old. Physical Therapist and Yoga Instructor. Last seen Wednesday May 8, 2019. May have gone for a run or hike in the Makawao Forest Reserve. Contact Detective Dennis Clifton at 808-244-6433 or her friend Sarah who is tracking all leads by calling or text at 415-336-4591.

Bonnie VanDeraa

Runners World Article - Real Life Wonder Woman! - Article by Jordan Smith

KARK NBC 4 - News Story - Little Rock, Arkansas - Price McKeon News Reporter

Fox News 23 Story - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Bonnie's Facebook Page - B's Wonder Woman Page! - Poems that Bonnie has written as she goes through her recovery journey. Worth reading each one to feel her emotions.

Inspirational Running Quote

"Take Each Day 5-Minutes at a Time, Don't Ever Give Up and Go Big or Go Home" - Bonnie VanDeraa

I personally look at my day different and now take 5-minutes at a time each day.

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #12 | Bonnie VanDeraa – True Life “Wonder Woman!” appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

How is everyone? All good? Running well? As we wind down April, the Boston Marathon is now behind us. The weather seemed to have held up well and some really great running stories came out of the marathon this year. I feature a few of them in my news segment. Congratulations to all of you that participated this year and hope you had a great time.

This episode I talk about the Boston Marathon and the news segment include a few inspirational stories from this years race. If you ran it, consider sending a voice message and share how your run was this year. Just click the orange tap on the right of the page and you will have three minutes.

My guest's this episode are a wonderful Maui couple, Sam & Lindsey Wilbur. Lindsey is one of the top female runners here on Maui and she also runs marathons. She has completed 18 full marathons and 5 have been Boston. Earlier this month she did the Rotterdam Marathon in the Netherlands.

Lindsey's husband Sam is a former runner and had aspirations to be on the Olympic team. A professional runner for New Balance he made 5 USATF National Teams and competed in the 1996 and 2000 Olympic trials in the Steeplechase but got eliminated in the semi-finals each time. Retiring from running in 2002, he now dabbles as an individual running coach and operates a small race management business, Maui Running. This company puts on several corporate fun runs each year on the island.

Sam's passion and #1 goal is to travel to every country in the world. He has already traveled to 107 countries out of 196 so he has 89 to go. And he travels expending very little money which he does churning credit cards. Please don't try this unless you are a very detailed person. World Wide Wilbur is Sam's new side hustle. You can find blogs, links and some very good travel tips to help you with your travels and to save money.  Runners that travel to races can benefit from the tips found at World Wide Wilbur.

With everything going on in Sam & Lindsey's live their most important job is being parents to two wonderful boys!

Also during my opening, I talk about my frustration recently heading out for a run and my watch beeps low battery. This is user error on my part and I have no idea what is wrong with me. Post it notes might be my ticket to remember to do things! Aside from talking about this years Boston Marathon, I finish up with some interesting statistics (STATS!) from the recently released 2018 National Runner Survey from Running USA.

And finally I thank you so much for listening. I enjoy brining to you this Podcast 2 times per month and hope to expand it more in the future. It does take quite a bit of time and right now we do not have sponsors or any type of income for the show. I do this because I love doing it but hope to attract sponsors in the future.

That said, I could really use your help by sharing the Podcast with your running friends and through Social Media. And also important is to leave a review on Apple Podcast! Reviews help to increase exposure for the show and attracts new listeners. So if you can do this for me I can keep bringing you a good running podcast. I appreciate all my listeners!

Enjoy Episode #11... And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening

Boston Marathon 

Michelle "Mo" Wheeler- Ran and finished the Boston Marathon in 4:53:13 and ran forSamaritans Marathon Team (26.2 miles for suicide prevention)

Running USA

Jimmy Johnson - Completes the Boston Marathon in [3:09:07]

Yasir Salem - Link to the Gweneviere Mann Foundation - Yasir is over 21 marathons to his goal of 50 in 50!

News Segment

Tedy Bruschi  - Ran the Boston Marathon for Tedy's Team - Finished in [4:35:35] - (Article by Tommy McArdle - Boston.com)

Micah Herndon - Marine crawled the final 100 yards of the Boston Marathon - Finished in 3:38 - (Article by Billy Kobin - Courier-journal.com) - VIDEO - Washington Post

Red Hilton  - Last runner to finish the 2019 Boston Marathon - (Article by Nicole Yang - Boston.com)

Sam & Lindsey Wilbur

Lindsey Wilbur - Article - A Peak into the Life of a Modern Marathoner

Lindsey's Facebook Page

Maui Running - Sam's running page. Also packed with runs, hikes and a race calendar for Maui!

World Wide Wilbur - Sam's travel site packed with blogs, travel tips, travel guides and ways to save hundreds of dollars traveling!

Sam's Facebook Page

Inspirational Running Quote

"The Obsession with Running is Really an Obsession with the Potential for More and More LIFE!" - George Sheehan, M.D., Author of Going the Distance

As a runner, non-runners sometimes say we are obsessed. I am happy to say I am obsessed with running because it has enhanced my life and made me a better person. This is where I drop the mic, turn and walk away!

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #11 | Sam & Lindsey Wilbur – The Running, Traveling & Maui Life! appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

Well it is hard to believe it is already April! This year is flying by and spring is definitely in the air. After a long winter, runners all over can now peel off the layers and run outside! And April means it is time for the Boston Marathon to be held on Monday April 15th. Good luck to everyone that is running it this year. I hope you have wonderful weather and the stars align for an excellent race!

After being stuck in Denver in the Bomb Cyclone storm, I made my way to Los Angeles for the Los Angeles Marathon Expo. I'm Co-Race Director of the Maui Marathon and we had a booth at expo and we met so many runners. It was ridiculous fun and I enjoyed seeing the excitement and enthusiasm of each runner and enjoyed our conversations. I love LA!

My guest this episode is Liz Roux who will graduate from Harvard College at the end of this May. She was born in China, orphaned at 11 months old, left on a street corner by her parents in hope she would have a better life. Her story is amazing and filled with happiness, sadness, adventure, gratification, reflection, yes! running, and lots of life. I found Liz through a Tedx Talk and her story captivated me and I knew I had to reach out to her. Liz is an intelligent, strong young lady. Please take the time to listen to our conversation. You will be glad you did!

In my opening I talk about a new feature on the website...your ability to record up to a 3 minute message. You can tell us your story and how you got into running and why! Or tell us about your favorite run or a personal running accomplishment. And you can leave a comment about the Podcast. I will sort through them and maybe play it on a future episode. Just go to the main page of this website and scroll to the bottom and you will see where you can click. Also, you can just click the tab to the right where it says "Send Voice Message" which may be easier.

The opening also includes an update on our first Women's Running Self-Defense class taught by Tasha Ina Church from Episode #9 here in Kihei, Hawaii. We had 18 ladies that learned quite a bit from Tasha and feel they could defend themselves if they were to end up in an uncomfortable or threatening situation. Unfortunately, there was another female runner murdered by a scumbag in New Jersey a few weeks ago. This has to stop. These stories make me sick so ladies please be smart out there. With spring and summer you will be running outside and need to be aware of your surroundings. Consider taking a Self-Defense Class or take Tasha's on-line course. She is providing a limited time $20 discount for Feel Good Running Podcast listeners. We do not financially benefit from Tasha's course. Your safety is what we are interested in.

I also talk about a Netflix documentary I recently saw called Roll with Me. It is about Gabriel Cordell, paralyzed from the chest down after a car accident, who rolled his wheelchair across the USA in 100 days. He started in Santa Monica, California and rolled to New Jersey. Amazing documentary and I would like to have him on Feel Good Running as a guest even though it does not pertain to running. His inspiration would motivate everyone! We will see what happens with that.

The news segment this week features Katelyn Dolder who survived the Borderline Bar mass shooting last November in Thousand Oaks, California and Michelle "Mo" Wheeler who is running the Boston Marathon for the Samaritans Marathon Team. The Samaritans run in honor of loved ones lost to suicide. I end the news segment with a comment on the Barkley Marathons which is considered the world's toughest race with only 15 finishers in 33 years and zero finishers the past two. I find this event nothing more than a novelty event and am not a fan. Any race that is designed for a runners failure is useless in my mind. Races that challenge us runners that we all have the opportunity to finish if we train is what I am interested in. This is my own personal opinion of course and no disrespect if races like the Barkley Marathons happens to be your jam.

Runners, Feel Good Running Podcast reached a milestone of over 1,000 downloads since we launched in December. This is because of you and I am very grateful to all of you that listen. Please keep sharing the podcast with your friends and on your social media platforms and (hint, hint) a nice review and rating on Apple Podcast will certainly attract new listeners to the podcast. Someday it would be nice to have 1,000+ downloads per episode! We can reach that dream with your help!

Enjoy Episode #10... And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening

Los Angeles Marathon

Boston Marathon 

Roll with Me - Documentary on Netflix of Gabriel Cordell, paralyzed rolled his wheelchair across the USA from California to New York.

News Segment

Katelyn Dolder - Survived the Boarderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, California - Ran LA Marathon in honor of victims (Author - Emily Alvarenga)

Michelle "Mo" Wheeler - Running the Boston Marathon for Samaritans Marathon Team (26.2 miles for suicide prevention)

Barkley Marathons - Toughest Race in the world. 100 mile ultra marathon in Tennessee that only 15 people have finished in 33 years.

Liz Roux

Liz Roux Tedx Talk - Amazing 13 minute Tedx Beacon Street Talk!

Instagram Page

Facebook Page

Dexter's instagram (Their Doggies own Page)

Email for Team David or other communications: [email protected]

• Personal monthly blog started after high school graduation https://oflifeandliz.wordpress.com/
• Speaking at a church in Indiana about my TED Talk (pastor is a family friend) https://vimeo.com/316400732
• Newspaper article about my cross country season shortly after my mom's passing http://archive.naplesnews.com/news/gulf-coast-high-cross-country-runner-presses-on-after-losing-mom-to-cancer-ep-313882771-341683091.html
• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 
• St. Jude Memphis Marathon 2019

Inspirational Running Quote

This quote fits in with Liz Roux's focus on life. We all have difficult time and running will help you get through them1

"Running has taught me to always push forward, especially in difficult times" - unknown

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #10 | Liz Roux – Life Defined by Choices NOT Circumstances appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello “Feel Good” Runners!

How are you listeners? Is your running going well?  The spring 2019 race season is here and all that winter training should be paying off. There are so many races this time of the year for you to choose from and of course next month is the Super Bowl of marathons, Boston.  If you are signed up for any spring race good luck!

Now if you are new to running congratulations and welcome to our world. By now you should be finding out by how incredible running is and experiencing all the positive effects it has on your mind, body and soul!

Well, I am in Denver, Colorado and it has been cold and snowy therefore I’ve not had a chance to do much running the past few weeks due to the weather. Such a contrast from Maui. However, I was able to run with my former running group, Runners Edge of the Rockies two times and caught up with some of my old running friends which I enjoyed. Plus I ran the St. Patrick’s Day, “Running of the Green” in downtown Denver. One of my favorites.

With the massive Bomb Cyclone snow and windstorm that hit Denver, my flight was cancelled and I have been stuck here for a week. That is fine since I get to spend more time with family and my little Grandson who is 21 months old. He is a blast and looks to be a future runner!

I’ll be heading to the Los Angeles Marathon Expo at the Maui Marathon booth to promote our event. The expo is on Friday March 22nd & Saturday March 23rd. Stop by and say hi if you happen to be doing the LA Marathon and are at the Convention Center to pick up your packet. Would love to meet you. And I will have my podcast equipment so if you or someone you know has a inspirational story that our listeners would like to hear, drop me a note at [email protected] and I might do a quick on the spot interview.

This episode, my guest is Tasha Ina Church. Tasha is a professional Self-Defense Instructor and has 17 years of experience. With the spring and summer months upon us, most of us will be running outside. It’s unfortunate that female runners need to be aware of their surroundings when running alone.

Tasha provides a wealth of safety and self-defense information, tips and techniques to increase your odds of survival if you should encounter an unexpected unpleasant situation. Actually, I feel this is the most important and beneficial conversation you will hear this year. Tasha even offers a on-line self defense course with a $20 discount for our listeners. This is one episode you will most definitely want to share with your friends. If our conversation prevents one attack or harm to a female runner, then it is all worth it! DON’T MISS THIS ONE!

In the opening I talk about my trip to Denver and some fun items that I found in Colorado Running Magazine. You will get a kick out of it. And I have three news items that I think you will find inspirational and motivating. Besides my conversation with Tasha, I end the episode with a motivational running quote.

Feel Good Running Podcast is growing because of you and I thank you. Please keep sharing the podcast with your friends and on your social media platforms and (hint, hint) a nice review and rating on Apple Podcast will certainly attract new listeners to the podcast. Thank you for all your support and listener ship!

Finally, please be sure you get on the Email list for our periodic newsletter! And again, I appreciate each and every one of you that listen to my podcast! Running is my passion and I enjoy bringing you this podcast to you and hope to continue for several years to come!

And as always…remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim’s Opening

Runners Edge of the Rockies

Runners Roost – Colorado – My favorite Running Store

Colorado Runner Magazine – “I Might be a Runner If”

Los Angeles Marathon Expo – Jim Lynch will be at the Maui Marathon Booth – #639

News Segment

Ashley Ramirez – Love for Disney and Weight Loss – By Ashley Ramirez (Runners World On-Line)

Melissa Ossanna – From Multiple Sclerosis to marathons to the 4-100 mile trail race Grand Slam Challenge – Article by Taylor Dutch – (Runners World On-Line)

Jimmie Johnson – NASCAR Superstar – Running Boston Marathon hopefully in 3 hours (Boston.com)

Tasha Ina Church

Social Media:

• Facebook Fan Page: ElleLiveAction
• Facebook Group: WARRIORWOMYN
• Instagram: ElleLiveAction
• YouTube: www.YouTube.com/ElleLiveAction

For all other social media platforms, look up: @ElleLiveAction

TASHA’S LINKS:

Main Website – Tasha’s Main Website

On Line – Self Defense Course    – $20 discounted for Feel Good Running Podcast Listeners! FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!

Runners Safety Tips – List of Running Safety Tips from Tasha

Virtual Bio

Realtor Safety Video

Living in Action Blog

Statistical Data Nationally for Attacks on Women

Self-Defense Workshop Schedule & Services Available

Inspirational Running Quote

This quote I found fits with Melissa Ossanna who is running the 4- 100 mile trail race Grand Slam. And it is for all you runners that are doing what many others are not or won’t. You are all winners!

“Today I will do what others won’t…So tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t” — Jerry Rice 

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review!

The post FGR #9 | Tasha Ina Church – Professional Self-Defense Instructor appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

Happy March and hope you are reaching all your running goals thus far this year. It is coming up on spring race season with several full and half-marathons over the next three months. It is tough running during the winter, but soon all that hard work will pay off.

Well this episode will be an extended version. Yasir Salem is my guest and he is in the race of his life. Last year, he lost his wonderful, beautiful and talented wife Gweneviere Mann to lung cancer. This story is so much more. Gweneviere survived a brain tumor several years back when they were just dating. During the surgery, she suffered a complication which affected her memory. We discuss the effects and recovery process in-depth during our conversation. The lung cancer on the other hand, came on suddenly last year and spread rapidly and she lost her battle just a few short months later.

Yasir is now running 50 marathons in 50 weeks in all 50 states to honor her. And...through this he is bringing awareness to cancer and to the Gweneviere Mann Foundation that they formed just prior to her passing. They both ran marathons together, a passion they discovered and shared during her recovery from brain surgery. So what better way for Yasir to bring awareness to such a devastating disease such as cancer by doing something extraordinary in a sport they both loved.

As a side note, Yasir was a competitive eater and was in the top ten of the annual Nathan's Hot Dog eating contest and several year title holder of the Tour de Donut bicycle race. Listen to find out more about that!

This entire conversation is relevant to this incredible love story between Yasir and Gweneviere. And please check out the links below, especially the Committed Podcast. Gweneviere and Yasir discuss her brain surgery and the effect from it in this very well done podcast. Shortly after they recored this podcast early last year, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. You will get to know and hear the story first hand from them both.

A few weeks ago I was in Honolulu to attend the Great Aloha Run Expo to promote the Maui Marathon. I also ran the race on Monday February 18th, which was a 8.2 mile run from Aloha Tower and finishing inside the Aloha Stadium. This is the same stadium were the annual Pro-Bowl was before they decided to bring it back to the mainland. What a great run and an honor to run with so many of our fine service men and women. If you are ever in Honolulu in February, consider doing this run. You and 16,000 of your closest friends will have a great time!

The main item I talk about is running shoes. Yes running shoes. Does it drive you nuts when you find a pair of running shoes that you really like that fit perfectly on your feet and then the next version comes out and they change it entirely? Well it does me! And I scour the Internet to scarf up a couple pairs before they disappear.

Since we do not have a running or sports store on Maui, I purchase mine on-line from Road Runner Sports. They have an excellent return policy which you can try them for 90 days and return if they are not working. And if you live in a market where there is a physical Road Runner Sports store, they recently introduced a new technology to find the perfect running shoe...the 3D Fit Drone.

Finally, I briefly talk about the woman's running self-defense class coming up on March 30th at Powerhouse Gym here on Maui. Instructor Tasha Ina Church will teach it. And of course, most of you do not live here on the island of Maui so I am going to bring Tasha to you. She is my guest for the next episode. It is a great conversation and ladies you definitely do not want to miss it. That will be out around March 15th. And guys be sure to share the episode with all the female running friends in your life.

Due to the length of this episode, I did not include an inspirational running quote. However, I did include one at the end of the show notes below. I will resume next episode.

So enjoy this episode and please share it on social media and with all your running friends!

Please be sure you get on the Email list for our periodic newsletter! I appreciate each and every one of you that listen to my podcast!

And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening

Great Aloha Run

Tasha Ina Church - Self Defense Instructor

Lindsey Hein - I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Podcast

Road Runner Sports - Website - Shoe Dog 

3D Foot Drone Technology Article - Anny H. Ruth - Writer

Contact - Feel Good Running to get on the list for the periodic Newsletter!

News Segment

Ida Rei - Crawling to the relay transition point - World of Buzz - Article - Video

Sarah Hites - Running with a Goat - Writer - Danielle Zickl - Runners World On-Line

Yasir Salem

• Gweneviere Mann Foundation - Gwenevieremann.org
• Gweneviere Mann Foundation - Facebook
• Gweneviere Mann Foundation - Instagram
• Gweneviere Mann Foundation - Twitter
• Yasir 50-in-50 - Follow Yasir's Journey
• Gweneviere - Celebration of Life - Picture collage at the end of the video
• What I Can Be - Song written and sung by Gweneviere - ITunes
• Gweneviere Music - Solo - Ro Sham Bo - Theme Song to Bagdad Cafe
• Runner's World: https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a25240909/yasir-salem-50-marathons-50-states-50-weeks/
• Men's Health: https://menshealth.com/fitness/a25777357/yasir-salem-50-marathons-50-states-50-weeks/
• StoryCorpsFeaturing Gwen's music https://twitter.com/StoryCorps/status/1058943525230952448
• Pre-marathon: https://storycorps.org/in-memoriam-gweneviere-mann/
• Committed Podcasthttps://www.committedpodcast.com/podcasts/i-will-remember-you.htm
• https://www.committedpodcast.com/podcasts/forget-it.htm
• CBSSite and broadcast: https://newyork.cbslocal.com/video/3964207-nyc-marathon-runner-honoring-his-late-wife/
• FB: https://www.facebook.com/CBSNewYork/videos/nyc-marathon-runner-honoring-his-late-wife/320307758748989/
• YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWUN1artyFc
• ABC:  https://abc7ny.com/sports/wifes-death-inspires-nyc-marathon-runners-ambitious-goal/4582748/
• KYW 1060 Philadelphia: https://kywnewsradio.radio.com/articles/philadelphia-marathon-winners-set-new-records?fbclid=IwAR3Yz10pWvprhI-sszsTnS7vWXPsZH4Ts-E1w5_Vo2tpyXFWE8_rWfj-BmE
• Press releases:
• https://www.nyrr.org/media-center/press-releases/tcs-new-york-city-marathon-launches-campaign-honoring-inspirational-runners
• https://sgbonline.com/tcs-new-york-city-marathon-launches-campaign-honoring-inspirational-runners/
• https://www.nyrr.org/media-center/2018/2018-tcs-new-york-city-marathon/team-movedme
• Social mentions:
• Bart Yasso (former editor in chief, Runner's World): https://twitter.com/BartYasso/status/1058088029418590214
• NYRR Media Relations:
• https://twitter.com/nyrrnews/status/1051852483079925765
• https://twitter.com/nyrrnews/status/1058678165164511232

Inspirational Running Quote

This quote is for Yasir in honor of Gweneviere. Terry Fox who lost a leg to cancer ran across Canada starting in 1980. However, he only made it 3,000 miles and had to stop because the cancer spread. He passed away shortly after. Terry Fox is a legend and definitely set an example. And today, Yasir is setting that example in honor of his wife Gweneviere!

“I want to set an example, that will never be forgotten” —Terry Fox

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review! Oh we are now on Spotify!

The post FGR #8 | Yasir Salem – The Race of His Life! appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.

Hello "Feel Good" Runners!

How are you? And how is your running going so far in 2019? Good I hope! Well each and every day it is staying lighter longer and in just a few short weeks, the time will change and eventually spring will be in the air! From my neck of the woods, Maui, it appears this winter has been quite rough in many areas of the USA. Heck, we even had snow on our island. Yes, snow on Maui! So, hang tough a little longer!

Linda Jerome is an everyday runner. She has not set a running world record, won a marathon, been featured on the cover of Runners World magazine or has 100,000 social media followers. However, just like most of us everyday runners, she loves running and is winning in her daily life. She did not start running until a few years ago when she turned 60! It’s stories like Linda’s that inspire me and motivates me to keep moving mile after mile.

I am honored to have Linda as my guest for this episode and we had a wonderful conversation. Though it was recorded in early 2018 when I was first developing the Feel Good Running podcast, it is very relevant and Linda continues on her running journey here on Maui day after day, mile after mile and step-by-step. She inspires many of us just by who she is and what she has accomplished and you will know exactly why when you hear our conversation. We all love her here on the island and so will you! And after you listen, click on Linda's Facebook Page and leave her a word of encouragement.

If you have been listening, you know I love inspirational running stories. We all have our reasons why we run and our personal story is unique to ourselves. Since the show is growing, some of you have sent me your story and appreciate each of them. If you have a story you would like to share, go to the main page of feelgoodrunning.com. There is a place for you to share your story. Who knows, I may read it in a future episode and maybe even have you on as a guest. That said in this episode I read a very moving story from Katie Brotten from Seattle.

Blown away is all I can say! There was incredible response received from Episode #6 and the subject of female running safety. With spring around the corner, this is such an important subject and your comments really touched me. Just on Maui this has already resulted in the organization of a women’s self defense class specifically focused on female running safety.

Powerhouse Gym in Kihei, Maui will host a female self defense and running safety tips session on March 30th and will be taught by Tasha Ina Church, a certified self-defense instructor. And mark your calendar; I will have Tasha on as my guest in Episode #9 to be released on March 15, 2019.

So listeners, I challenge you to organize a woman’s self defense class with running safety tips in your area. The prevention of just one attack or saving the life of one woman’s life as a result is more than worth it. Let’s get this started! And send me a note it you do set one up in your area! I would like to hear how it goes.

During this episode I also reach out to you about my lack of experience with social media and the frustrations I am having trying to figure it out. Instagram seems to be the flavor of the month and I have no idea how to use it. So I am reaching out to you listeners for tips, suggestions and help on how I can learn and become proficient or at least pretend like I am. Can’t say I am the smartest tool in the toolbox when it comes to this stuff! Send me a Email to [email protected] with any HELP!

There is much more including our running news segment. So enjoy this episode and share on social media and with all your running friends!

Be sure you get on the Email list for our periodic newsletter! I appreciate each and every one of you that listen to my podcast! I really enjoying bring it to you hope I am making a difference in your running world!

And as always...remember to just show up and always, ALWAYS feel good about YOUR running!

~Jim

Jim's Opening

Tasha Ina Church – Self Defense Instructor 

Jim’s direct Email to for tips on Social Media! HELP! - [email protected]

Contact - Feel Good Running to get on the list for the periodic Newsletter!

News Segment

Boston Bulldogs- Runners World Article - (credit writer Ali Nolan) - Boston Bulldogs Website - Mike Ferullo, a former heroin addict, started the Boston Bulldogs running group to help recovering addicts to find purpose and motivation by running.

Running Group Catching a Thief- Philly.Com Article - (credit writer Stephanie Farr) - Annenberg (Lunchtime) Running Group in Philadelphia catches a robber!

Khemjira Klongsanun - Article (credit writer Jane McGuire) - Khemjira carries a abandoned puppy 19 miles of a marathon, adopts it and names it Chombueng after the marathon. - Video - Khemjiri carrying Chombueng the puppy during the race!

Linda Jerome

Linda’s Facebook Page – Please take a few minutes and leave Linda a nice encouraging message on her Facebook Page!

Maui Marathon

Honolulu Marathon

Inspirational Running Quote

“Nothing, not even pain, lasts forever. If I can just keep putting one foot in front of the other, I will eventually get to the end.” —Kim Cowart

So Feel Good runners...keep putting one foot in front of the other! You WILL eventually reach the end!

Thanks for listening. Be sure to subscribe to the Feel Good Running on Apple Podcasts and please give us a nice rating and if you feel really motivated leave a review! Oh we are now on Spotify!

The post FGR #7 | Linda Jerome – True Inspirational Runner! appeared first on Feel Good Running Podcast.