In this episode of the On the Runs podcast, hosts Eric, Erika, welcome Darris and Star Blackford (04:15) to the PodFam. Darris and Star Blackford delve into the world of running, exploring their personal journeys from marathons to ultra marathons. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of race directing the Columbus Marathon, the impact of community involvement, and the emotional stories behind their experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships in the running community and the dedication required to organize a successful race while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. In this engaging conversation, Eric, Darris, and Star Blackford discuss their experiences in the running community, the importance of collaboration among race directors, and share memorable stories from marathons. They reflect on the challenges and joys of organizing races, the significance of community support, and the lessons learned from other events. The conversation also delves into personal anecdotes, including a humorous and cringe-worthy marathon story, and concludes with thoughts on future events and the camaraderie within the running community.

Takeaways

Darris and Star met through running at a marathon.
The Columbus Marathon is a significant event for both Darris and Star.
First marathon experiences can be challenging yet rewarding.
Transitioning from marathons to ultra marathons requires mental and physical preparation.
Community involvement is crucial for the success of the Columbus Marathon.
The partnership with Nationwide Children's Hospital enhances the race's impact.
Race directing involves meticulous planning and relationship management.
Volunteers play a vital role in the success of running events.
The emotional connection to the race is felt by both runners and organizers.
Safety and participant well-being are top priorities during race day. Community support is vital for race directors.
Sharing ideas among race directors enhances event quality.
Personal connections in the running community are invaluable.
Learning from other races can improve your own events.
Humor can be found in even the most challenging situations.
Planning for future events requires foresight and collaboration.
Memorable stories from marathons create lasting bonds.
The running community thrives on shared experiences.
It's important to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Building relationships in the running community leads to success.

Erika's Chicago Marathon Fundraiser - for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in memory of her brother, Nick

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On this episode, we welcome Hillary Kupish to the PodFam

In this engaging conversation, Hillary Kupish (09:59) shares her inspiring journey as a mother, runner, and entrepreneur. She discusses her recent achievement of completing in the great world race, running in seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of her running career. Hillary emphasizes the importance of community, mindset, and self-discovery through running, while also detailing her transition from a corporate career at Nike to working for herself. The conversation highlights the significance of setting personal goals, the joy of shared experiences in endurance sports, and the empowering nature of running as a means of personal growth. In this engaging conversation, Hillary shares her experiences from a series of marathons, highlighting the deep connections formed through running, the challenges of race logistics, and the emotional rollercoaster of competing in various environments. She discusses the camaraderie among runners, the unique experiences on a luxurious airplane, and the cultural differences encountered in Istanbul. The conversation also touches on the importance of mindset, the struggles of racing in heat, and practical tips for recovery and dealing with chafing. As she looks ahead to future races, Hillary emphasizes the joy of being part of a supportive running community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weather Talk
05:56 Ali G Show Discussion
09:59 Hillary Intro
15:46 Working for yourself
19:09 Hillary's Running Journey
33:37 Pulling the 777 Trigger
43:11 Arriving to Cape Town
48:53 Start of the Great World Race
01:38:33 Big final 2 questions
01:43:28 Outro
01:54:03 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Takeaways

Hillary is a mother of two and a passionate runner.
She completed seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.
Running has been a means of self-discovery for Hillary.
She transitioned from a corporate career to entrepreneurship.
Community plays a vital role in endurance sports.
Mindset is crucial for overcoming challenges in running.
Hillary emphasizes the importance of setting personal goals.
The experience of running in unique locations is transformative.
Hillary's journey reflects resilience and determination.
She encourages others to embrace their passions and take risks. Running fosters deep connections and friendships.

Logistics can be challenging but are part of the adventure.
Mindset is crucial for handling race difficulties.
Cultural differences can impact race experiences.
Post-race recovery is essential for performance.
Chafing is a common issue for runners in humid conditions.
Sharing experiences with family can enrich the journey.
Planning and preparation are key for race success.
The running community provides invaluable support and encouragement.

Erika's Chicago Marathon Fundraiser - for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in memory of her brother, Nick

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Happy New Year and welcome to the PodFam Susie Chan!

In this episode, ultra runner and peloton instructor Susie Chan (10:04) shares her inspiring journey from being a non-runner and smoker to becoming a celebrated ultra marathoner and peloton instructor. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to running, the importance of community in her running journey, and her transition from a career in the museum sector to a full-time running career. Susie reflects on her first half marathon experience, the challenges and triumphs of participating in the Marathon des Sables, and her love for running by the sea. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of running and the supportive nature of the running community. She reflects on her journey with Peloton, the importance of music in her classes, and shares some unpublished stories from her running adventures, including a memorable encounter with an alligator. The conversation culminates with her experiences at the Badwater 135, a race she always dreamed of completing. Susie shares her experiences and challenges faced while preparing for and participating in the Badwater 135. She discusses the rigorous selection process for the race, the importance of having a supportive crew, and the emotional and physical toll of running in extreme conditions. Susie reflects on her journey from being a crew member to becoming a participant, emphasizing the community aspect of ultra running. The conversation also touches on future aspirations, bucket list races, and the motivational power of music in her running journey.

Chapters

00:00 New Year, New Beginnings
02:12 Erika's Ultra Marathon Journey
05:05 Training with KJ: Goals and Progress
08:00 Peloton and Running: A Perfect Match
10:04 Guest Introduction: Suzy Chan
12:05 Susie's Journey from Non-Runner to Ultra Runner
15:03 The Impact of Community in Running
18:00 Transitioning from Museum Work to Running Career
20:50 The Hook: Susie's First Half Marathon Experience
23:54 Exploring the Ultra Marathon World
26:23 The Marathon des Sables Experience
29:40 Finding Joy in Running by the Sea
33:33 Desert Racing: The Allure and Challenges
36:27 Nutrition Struggles in Ultra Marathons
36:37 Transitioning to a Full-Time Running Career
40:02 The Peloton Experience: From Runner to Instructor
42:33 The Role of Music in Running Classes
44:40 Unpublished Stories: Running Adventures and Misadventures
50:37 The Badwater Experience: A Dream Realized
52:31 The Challenge of Badwater
56:24 Crew Dynamics and Support
01:00:42 The Journey to Badwater
01:04:44 Future Aspirations and Bucket List Races
01:08:53 Music and Motivation
01:10:54 Fangirling Over Suzy Chan
01:12:48 Running Adventures and Challenges
01:15:41 Boston Run Show Partnership
01:16:37 Exciting Changes at the Boston Run Show
01:19:37 Future Plans for Podcast Growth
01:22:07 Spotify Playlist Ideas
01:25:34 Chicago Fundraising and Closing out the episode

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In this episode, We welcome Bill Murphy (03:30) to the PodFam as Bill joins us and shares his incredible journey of participating in the Great World Race, where he ran seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. He discusses his initial foray into running, the motivation behind his participation in the race, and the challenges he faced along the way. Bill emphasizes the importance of mindset, camaraderie among runners, and the impact of fundraising for Make-A-Wish. His experiences highlight the physical and mental endurance required for such an endeavor, as well as the joy of connecting with others through shared challenges. In this episode, Bill Murphy shares his experiences from running marathons across different continents, focusing on the challenges faced in extreme heat and humidity, particularly in South America. He reflects on the support from family and friends during the Miami marathon, where he was joined by Make-A-Wish ambassador Bethany. The conversation highlights the importance of community, positivity, and the impact of fundraising for Make-A-Wish. Bethany shares her inspiring journey and aspirations, emphasizing the life-changing experiences provided by Make-A-Wish. The episode concludes with discussions about future goals and the significance of maintaining motivation in running and life.

Running the World For Wishes

Takeaways

Bill Murphy raised over $100,000 for Make-A-Wish.
He started running after a casual conversation about the Boston Marathon.
Running provided him with moments of clarity and problem-solving.
The Great World Race was a significant challenge that tested his limits.
Mindset is crucial; focusing on 'why' can help overcome obstacles.
Camaraderie among runners was a key motivator during the race.
Experiencing jet lag and its effects on performance was a real challenge.
The support from the local communities varied by location.
Nutrition and hydration were critical, especially in extreme conditions.
The heat and humidity during the marathon were intense.
Gamifying the marathon helped in managing the challenge.
Community support plays a crucial role in endurance events.
Bethany's story showcases the impact of Make-A-Wish.
Positivity can uplift and motivate during tough times.
The Miami marathon was a memorable experience for all.
Fundraising efforts for Make-A-Wish have been significant.
Maintaining motivation is essential after achieving big goals.
The power of connection and shared experiences in running. 

Chapters

03:30 Introduction to Bill Murphy and His Journey
06:37 Bonding Through Shared Experiences
07:50 Bill's Running Journey Begins
14:18 The Great World Race: Motivation and Preparation
28:24 The Marathon Experience: Sleep vs. Energy
33:41 Mindset Shift: From How-To to Why-To
37:47 Camaraderie Among Runners
48:41 The Heat of South America
51:41 Meeting Bethany: A Special Connection
01:02:54 Celebrating Achievements and Connections
01:06:56 The Impact of Mak

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In this Christmas special episode of the On the Runs podcast, hosts Eric and Erica reflect on the past year, share fun Christmas trivia, and discuss their plans for the upcoming year. They are joined by guests Tara and Lindsey, who contribute to the lively conversation filled with laughter and insights. In this engaging conversation, they reflect on their experiences over the past year, discussing the impact of various guests, the importance of community, and strategies for growth. They share memorable moments, listener feedback, and their aspirations for the future, including plans for events and merchandise. The discussion highlights the significance of storytelling in the podcasting world and the connections formed through shared experiences.

Takeaways

This is our Christmas special episode!
We had a lot of fun recording this year.
Trivia is a great way to engage listeners.
Reflecting on the year helps us grow.
Collaboration with other podcasters is valuable.
Looking forward to 2024 brings excitement.
We need to keep our podcast fun and engaging.
Christmas traditions can be humorous and relatable.
The community around our podcast is important.
Planning for the future helps us stay focused. Aaron's journey highlights the challenges and changes in life.
Jared's story serves as motivation for many listeners.
Engagement strategies have led to significant growth in the podcast.
Controversial guests can provide valuable perspectives.
Listener feedback is crucial for shaping future content.
Memorable guests leave a lasting impact on the audience.
Plans for 2025 include exciting events and collaborations.
Community connections enhance the podcast experience.
Merchandise could strengthen the brand and community.
Reflecting on the past year helps in planning for the future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setup
03:39 Christmas Trivia Fun
14:35 Wrap-Up and Transition to Pizza
14:42 Introduction and Overview of the Year
27:29 Highlights and Key Moments of the Year
33:13 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Goals
40:03 Introducing The Recrap Podcast
47:15 Event Recaps and Future Plans
52:10 Controversial Guests and Listener Reactions
01:05:43 Technical Glitches and Guest Interactions
01:12:09 Race Recaps and Listener Preferences
01:17:50 Future Podcast Aspirations and Collaborations
01:26:44 Personal Reflections and Holiday Plans

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We are wicked excited to welcome Ben Dixon to the PodFam. Ben shares his incredible experiences during the Great World Race, including his adventures in Antarctica, Cape Town, Colombia, and Miami. He discusses the challenges faced by the runners, the emotional connections formed, and the behind-the-scenes efforts that made the live stream a success. The conversation highlights the importance of community, support, and the joy of shared experiences in the face of adversity.

During the Tros, Erika and Eric talk about how Erika is not the face of the Flying Pig Marathon, the Kinga Ka that is no more and holiday's prep. 

If you listen to the very very end, after the outro music, there is a special message for you in there. Have a great holiday everyone!

Takeaways

The importance of community and support during challenging events.
Experiencing different cultures and environments can be both rewarding and challenging.
Behind-the-scenes content adds depth to live streaming events.
The emotional connections formed during the race were profound and impactful.
Traveling can lead to unexpected friendships and connections.
The thrill of roller coasters can be compared to the excitement of adventure.
Preparation and adaptability are key in unpredictable situations.
The significance of celebrating achievements with loved ones.
The next Great World Race promises to be even bigger and better.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
09:51 Ben Dixon's Journey to the Great World Race
13:28 The Concept of TLDR and Its Impact
16:35 Preparation for the Race and Last-Minute Changes
19:32 Experiences in Antarctica and Meeting the Runners
22:15 Behind the Scenes of the Live Stream
25:11 Goals and Expectations for the Live Stream
27:13 Antarctica: The Race Experience
36:55 Cape Town: Transition and Challenges
38:57 The Fab Five: A Heartwarming Finish
41:57 Australia: A Beautiful Reset
47:09 Chaos in Istanbul: A Race Against Time
53:17 Surviving the Heat: Challenges in Colombia
58:28 Miami: A Celebration of Resilience
01:02:59 Looking Ahead: Future Plans for the Great World Race
01:05:02 The Great World Race and Its Impact
01:05:02 Behind the Scenes with Ben Dixon
01:15:39 Holiday Preparations and Personal Stories
01:17:56 Video Outro.mp4
01:18:48 Special message for our core listeners

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Two of our PodFam alums are back as Ashley Paulson and Becs Gentry (06:25) reunite back on the pod for an engaging conversation as Becs and Ash share their incredible experiences as runners who completed seven marathons across seven continents in just seven days. They discuss the power of social media in forming friendships, the challenges faced during their races, including unexpected changes in plans, GI issues, and humorous bathroom incidents. The camaraderie and support among the runners shine through as they recount their adventures in Antarctica and Cape Town, highlighting the bonds formed through shared experiences and challenges. They both share the Great World Race experience of racing around the world, the friendships they built during their travels, and the challenges they faced with injuries. They discuss the importance of recovery, the emotional rollercoaster of the final race, and the support from family and friends that made their journey possible. The bond formed between the runners is highlighted, showcasing the power of friendship and shared experiences in overcoming obstacles.

Takeaways

The bond formed through shared experiences is invaluable.
Social media can lead to meaningful friendships in unexpected ways.
Running together creates a unique support system.
Unexpected changes can lead to memorable experiences.
Humor can be found in even the most challenging situations.
GI issues are a common struggle for many runners.
The beauty of Antarctica is matched by its challenges.
Cape Town provided a beautiful backdrop for camaraderie.
Community support is crucial during tough times.
Embarrassing moments can strengthen friendships.  The energy on the plane was great, everyone helped each other recover.
Planning for recovery during long flights is crucial for performance.
Injuries can be managed with the right support and medication.
The emotional aspect of racing can be just as challenging as the physical.
Friendship and camaraderie are vital in endurance sports.
It's important to prioritize mental health during tough races.
The final race was a mix of triumph and emotional release.
Support from family can make a significant difference in achieving goals.
Building connections with fellow runners enhances the experience.
Every runner has a unique story that contributes to the overall journey.

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In this weeks OTR classic we go back to the summer of 2023 when we had an incredible experience with Brittany Charboneau.

In this engaging conversation, Brittany Charboneau shares her unique journey as a professional runner and comedian. From her whimsical lobster costume run that led to an unofficial world record to her experiences in the Dopey Challenge at Disney, Brittany's story is filled with humor, passion, and inspiration. She discusses her early days in running, her transition to professional athletics, and the importance of authenticity in her pursuits. Brittany also highlights her love for costumes and how they play a significant role in her running journey, ultimately leading to the creation of her brand, the 'Funny Runner.' Brittany shares her experiences with Disney rides, the joy of finding pennies, and how injuries have shaped her running journey. She discusses her passion for trail running, the therapeutic nature of art, and humorous anecdotes from her life. The conversation also touches on the importance of music in running and the creation of personalized playlists, culminating in Brittany's heartfelt appreciation for the support she receives from her fans and community.

Takeaways

Brittany holds an unofficial world record for the fastest half marathon dressed as a crustacean.
She started running in middle school and has loved it ever since.
Brittany's childhood backyard Olympics inspired her love for performance and competition.
She transitioned to professional running after winning a marathon in 2017.
Brittany's Dopey Challenge win was a highlight of her career, running four races in four days.
She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in her running and comedy.
Brittany enjoys creating costumes for her runs, which adds joy to her training.
She has a background in sales and marketing before pursuing running full-time.
Brittany's husband supported her decision to quit her job and pursue her passions.
She aims to incorporate more comedy into her life again.  Disney rides evoke nostalgia and excitement.
Injuries can lead to personal growth and new perspectives.
Finding pennies symbolizes small joys and opportunities.
Art serves as a creative outlet and coping mechanism.
Trail running fosters a sense of community and connection.
Humor can be found in the most unexpected situations.
Music plays a crucial role in motivation during runs.
Personal stories create deeper connections with audiences.
Embracing one's quirks can lead to a fulfilling life.
Support from fans and community is invaluable. 

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The Best of 2024 part 2!

02:02 Katherine Switzer 
12:32 Alex Granata aka AllieG
21:43 Yuki Chorney
33:53 Jess Lindeman
41:39 Boston Marathon Recap
55:02 Denise Freeman
01:07:58 Flying Pig
01:33:21 Boston Bulldogs
01:40:21 Blake Tyler
01:48:22 Trail Trash Podcast
01:58:25 Patton Gleason Relay Goods
02:17:47 Johanna Garton
02:23:56 Amy Mower
02:28:34 Mt. Washington

Takeaways

Katherine Switzer's story is not just about the Boston Marathon, but her entire journey in sports.
Women have historically faced challenges in sports, but their potential is now being recognized.
Training for a marathon requires understanding the balance between hard and easy runs.
Creating a personalized playlist can enhance the marathon experience.
The Martha's Vineyard Marathon presented unexpected challenges, but also memorable moments.
Race day mishaps can lead to humorous and valuable lessons.
The importance of community support in running cannot be overstated.
Qualifying for Boston is a significant achievement that requires dedication and hard work.
Understanding the 80-20 rule in training can lead to better performance.
Sharing personal stories can inspire others in the running community. We are lucky to be able-minded and able-bodied.
Race day is about gratitude and positivity.
The Boston Marathon is an iconic experience.
Community support can transform race day anxiety.
It's important to enjoy the journey, not just the finish.
Running can be a celebration, even amidst challenges.
Humor can lighten the intensity of race day.
Every runner has unique and funny stories to share.
The camaraderie among runners is invaluable.
Embracing the unexpected is part of the adventure. Running can be a fun and engaging way to connect with others.
The absence of a grade E in schools is a humorous mystery.
Different techniques for brushing teeth can spark fun debates.
Humorous scenarios, like clogging toilets, can lead to interesting discussions.
Community support in running is vital for motivation and encouragement.
Sober social events can be just as enjoyable as those involving alcohol.
Celebrating small wins in running can boost confidence and motivation.
Marathons can be both painful and rewarding experiences.
Chafing is a common issue for runners that should be addressed.
Starting a business requires passion and persistence, even after setbacks. The minimalist movement in running emphasizes technique and control.
E-commerce requires a different value proposition than in-store experiences.
Failures can lead to innovative solutions and new opportunities.
Retailers often struggle with excess inventory and need effective management strategies.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of adapting to market changes.
Accessible running gear can help more people engage in fitness.
Writing a book requires deep passion and commitment to the subject.
Cultural adjustments are significant for athletes transitioning to new environments.
Personal st

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It's December and we're on our annual Holiday Season break, but we're still dropping episodes for you during the holidays including some Best of 2024 and some old OTR Classics! Today we're dropping a all time classic from 2023 when we had Erin Azar, aka I'm Mrs. Space Cadet on the podcast. 

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