PreRace Podcast

In S4Ep7 of the PRP, Adam chatters with seasoned running socialite, impassioned banana-based baker and pediatric nurse extraordinaire Tess Nicholas, who has been preparing for the Glass City Half Marathon on Sunday April 28th, 2024. Adam Good, ambitious budding marathoner, mathematics enthusiast and Tess’s better half joins the show to offer his take on all things MRUN, banana muffins, and of course, running around town half naked. 

The convo kicks off with the recent graduates, and former MRUN cabinet members, reflecting on the challenges they’ve faced over the past couple years as they’ve transitioned from college running to adult running. Having been part of a group that has six different options for group runs each week for the past four years, it has been a big change of pace (pun intended) for them to adjust to far less social running opportunities. As such, they were forced to do some research and find the most fitting local running groups to pledge their allegiance to. From Bad Decisions Track Club to Bandit Racing Team, both Adam and Tess credit their new found social circles for providing them with a sense of belonging as well as encouraging them to reach heights in the running world they never thought possible. 

Things get vulnerable when Tess shares insight into her relationship with the sport and explains how she lets running be for her what she needs it to on any given day. Most days, it’s an excuse to be social. Other days, it’s a chance to destress. But her underlying theme remains constant - running is a source of wellness and it can be different things on different days. Utilize it, leverage it, and most importantly, don’t take it too seriously.

Is Tess bringing back neato? Scandal in the cabinet, say whaaa?? What the hell is RAM?? Beer ball?! Doughnut shorts?! Is Adam prepared to become of steward of the nanner?! True crime? Book queues??? Is Tess really just out her baking for her buds?! We avoidin nuts?? Running to Rick’s?? Math wizards, tortoises and burner phones, oh my!

This and much more in this endearing, gentle and peaceful episode of the PRP!

Explain that Strava section:

Tess's Strava Activity

Adam's Strava Activity

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Recorded Friday April 26th @ 12:00PM EST 

In S4Ep6 of the PRP, Adam prattles with seasoned long distance runner, aspiring physical therapist and prominent Madeline Island native Alexis Griggs, who has been preparing for the Mountains 2 Beach Marathon on April 28th, 2024. Yanni Bills, emerging hobby jogger, interventional radiology resident, and Alexis’ better half joins the show to offer his take on all things Griggsy, ploutfits and, of course, feta. 

This rambunctious conversation takes flight immediately, as the three cronies struggle to maintain their composure as they work through small talk and introductions. From learning about Yanni’s Greek culture to learning about his robot coach Greg, Alexis does her best to lasso the lads and reel the unhinged dialogue in.

Things settle down and get vulnerable as the PRP listenership is regaled with the tale of how Alexis has leveraged her passion for running to help navigate all of the transition she has undergone over the past few years of her life. From moving to a new state totally alone to pursue a career, to finding love, to discovering community, to pivoting her career path and choosing to go back to school, she has been forced to adjust on the fly and embrace the ever-changing tides that life has thrown her way. Although a lone wolf in the running world for several years, in the past 12 months she has really pushed herself out of her comfort zone and undergone a beautiful community-induced metamorphosis. She credits establishing herself in the local running community as a major benefactor in her growth and performance as a runner, but more importantly, her evolving growth as a human being.

Ooo we talking Greek-lish?? Was Alexis a teenage halfer?! Where the hell is Madeline Island?! What breed of dog is Yanni? Ummmm, driving on an ice bridge?? Double nut redemption?! Hot girl stomach problems? How high on life can we get?! Errrr, did Alexis throw up in her mouth and then swallow it? Lawless Canada?! When in doubt, add more feta?! Is Alexis coming into the culture?? Who is carb loading at baseline? Nerves, tryptophan and Viagra, oh my!

This and likely more than you’re interested in listening to in this unhinged, hilarious and rambunctious episode of the PRP!

Explain that Strava section:

Alexis' Strava Activity #1

Alexis' Strava Activity #2

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Recorded Sunday April 21st @ 3:00PM EST 

In S4Ep5 of the PRP, Adam babbles with carefree runner, aspiring gymnast and all around impulsively enthusiast 2nd grader Zella Hughes who has been preparing for the Reid School Fun Run on Friday April 19th, 2024. Olivia McMahon, former Fun Run champion, impassioned artist and Zella’s big sister joins the show to offer her take on all things jingles, candy bars and of course, Taylor Swift. 

Buckle up for this audacious episode as chaos ensues from the onset! The gals cover a range of topics as they traverse their way through the traditional PRP script, providing some surprisingly refreshing perspective on movement as it relates to physical health. Are us old folk overthinking this whole running thing? Is it more simple than we are making it out to be? Stop asking so many questions and just go outside and play, duh!

Things get vulnerable and extra cute when the sisters express their love and support for one another towards the end of the ‘sode. A good message and reminder to us all, that at the end of the day, loving and supporting one another is a whole lot easier and far less intricate than we make it out to be sometimes.

Reeses vs Kit Kat, who ya got?! Did someone say SOLAR ECLIPSE?? How much money would it take to get Olive to run a marathon? What in tarnation are the mini mini olympics?! How did sissy lose her AirPods? Who the heck is Claire and why is she so darn fast? Errrr, how far into the Swiftie hole has our little Zel fallen? Chill inducing jingles! Laps in PE? Wait, what are we supposed to do with the yellow snow??! 4th grade math?! Who’s got Barbie vision?? Warming up with the Macarena?! Spiders, bubbles and edgie wedgies, oh my!

This and lots more chaos in this unhinged, youthful and refreshingly sincere episode of the PRP.

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Recorded Friday April 5th @ 4:00PM EST 

In S4Ep4 of the PRP, Adam chats it up with seasoned middle distance runner, blossoming young New Balance Speedster and all around good vibes ambassador Aidan Bustillo, who has been preparing for the Boston Marathon on Monday April 15th, 2024. Dylan Parker, aspiring elite marathoner, laboratory scientist extraordinaire and one of Aidan’s athletes joins the show to offer his take on all things Strava, pickleball & coach Aidan. 

The banter commences with the boys learning about how Aidan’s relationship with running has evolved immensely over the past few years. During his time in college, Aidan slowly began spending less time thinking about competition and more time thinking about community. Although both are crucial aspects to the health and longevity of our sport as a whole, he credits his time working at Brighton Running Lab for evolving his outlook on running in a way he never saw coming. The relationships he’s built in these past few years have helped him bolster the self confidence to pursue goals in life, both in and out of the running world. 

Things get vulnerable when Aidan lays out his bold goals for Boston whilst the lads sermonize his recent & prolific rise in marathon distance. One thing is for certain, with a past year filled with college graduation, getting hired as a brand rep for New Balance, and running two sub 2:45 marathons, the sky's truly the limit for the emerging young Michigan-made prodigy!

Ohhhh we out here bro-sodin’? Mmmm, pipin’ hot nanner bread!! Plantains on the menu today?? MAKE STRAVA CASUAL AGAIN!! Normy vibes?! More pickleball drama… Crony coaching?? Egypt Valley lore?! Yap levels? Route masters?? Who exactly is Bill Kohn, and why should you be aware of him?! Discount double deuce check with Aidan from New Balance, like a good runner, Aidan is there. Boston, bananas & Maurten-based bribery oh my! 

This and so much more in this energetic, hilarious and heartfelt episode of the PRP!

Explain that Strava section:

Aidan's Strava Activity

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Recorded Thursday April 11th @ 6:00PM EST 

In S4Ep3 of the PRP, Adam chops it up with established marathoner, design artisan virtuoso and passionate community development specialist Aaron Barnett, who has been preparing for the Martian Marathon on Saturday April 13th, 2024. Jared Barnett, seasoned hobby jogger, lover of all people and aspiring public health aficionado joins the show to offer his take on all things community, stewardship, and running. 

The conversation kicks off with the brothers Barnett reflecting on the significance of community and how pivotal a role it plays in each of our lives. From an early age, Papa Barnett made sure the boys understood this by laying the groundwork for what would become a primary pillar in both Aaron & Jared’s lives. Sacrificing for the greater good and helping uplift those around you has become a daily practice for these gents, each of them pursuing this work in their own unique lanes with their own unique style. 

The lads then break bread about running, art and stewardship as they pontificate on what it means to be a leader. Leadership comes in all different shapes, forms and sizes these days, but one thing is for sure - it’s best to lead by example and let others tap in on their own timing and on their own fruition. The betterment of society comes when non forceful initiative is taken by those who possess the skills to empower others. At the end of the day, we’ve all got to ask ourselves, how can we impact the world in a positive way?

What’s the significance of the date 05/04/19?? Does the PRP have a cousin?! Is Jared about to be internationally thuggin?? What exactly does it mean to let go and let god? Is perfect the enemy of done?! Uh oh, heads up here comes the poop monster!! Big shout outs to Emeril Lagasse?? Does the truth really expose itself late in a marathon? What is the book of Barnett and why should you consider getting a copy?! Drip shots fired?? Pad Thai, vibes and humble pie, oh my!! 

This and so much more in this inspiring, motivational and prolific episode of the PRP!

Explain that Strava section:

Aaron's Strava Activity

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Recorded Saturday March 30th @ 9:30AM EST 

In S4Ep2 of the PRP, Adam chats it up with budding running phenom, enthusiastic boxing maven and story telling raconteur Jeremiah Maestre who has been preparing for the Marathon Des Sables on April 14th, 2024. Melanie Sulaver, seasoned marathoner, local rockstar nutrition coach, and fierce advocate for women in sport joins the show to offer her take on all things fueling, sand and of course, nanners.

The conversation kicks off with an in depth reflection on parenthood as both Jer & Mel discuss the intricacies involved when balancing family life with the pursuit of one’s passions. Contrary to what some may believe, having kids has actually enhanced both Jer & Mel's pursuit of their goals as it has enabled them to prioritize what’s important in their lives by being more intentional about their avocations. When you’re choosing to not spend time with your family, it sure as hell better be something that’s worth investing time in!

The three then take a deep dive into Jeremiah’s established career as a professional boxer and discuss his recent transition into the sport of long distance running. Having only run his first official marathon just two short years ago, Jer has thrust himself into the world of running full tilt without any plans of looking back. Although he has found himself in new territory over the past couple of years, a mantra that he brings with him from his time in the ring is an inspiring reminder for us all; don’t do it for others, do it for yourself. 

Ehhh bruh, can we stop real quick I got sand in my shoes!! We talking camel cut offs?! Has Jer assembled the perfect team of avengers to take this challenge on?? COD w/ the boys?! Hey neighbor, you wouldn’t happen to have any extra bivouac rugs, would ya? Ayahuasca?! Eating bat heads?! Merzouga dunes?!? Marrakech?? Sleeping mat or stove, which one you hauling along?! Did Jer just say venom pumps? Ummm 130F degrees, say whaaaa? Shoe cobblers? Floss?! Camels, carbohydrates and compasses, oh my!

This and oh so much more in this inspiring, unique and thrilling episode of the PRP.

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Recorded Monday April 1st @ 1PM EST 

In S4Ep1 of the PRP, Adam chats it up with seasoned movement aficionado, prominent local endurance coach and all around good vibes family man Geo Woodman, who has been preparing for the Mid South Double on March 16th, 2024. Connor Grant, ardent cycling enthusiast, proud dog daddy and seasoned PRP alum joins the show to offer his take on all things gravel, lube and movement as a form of celebration. 

This banter filled episode has a bit of everything and includes an extensive regaling of Geo’s journey to becoming such an eminent member of the local endurance community. From team sports, to teaching, to being a Nantucket chef, Geo’s story is far from ordinary, but seems to provide constant hints along the way that he was destined for a life of coaching and collaboration.  

The gents then dive into a detailed symposium on what exactly The Mid South is, and more importantly, what it represents. This gives way to a conversation about movement as a form of celebration. Sure, endurance is about grinding, pushing yourself and finding your own limits; but it’s also about human connection, helping to uplift others and making sacrifices for the greater good of sport. Although athletes often dominate the collective narrative for their deserving and impressive feats, it’s important to remember that they are not the only part of the humming endurance ecosystem. From neighborhood gyms & PT clinics, to the local brick & mortar stores, to coaches, to community event organizers the list of supporters is lengthy and full of inspiring individuals. One thing is for certain, this community is strongest and most vibrant when we support one another full tilt. A belief that for Geo, has matured into a lifestyle that has brought him more enlightenment than he could have ever expected. 

Ok, ok, ok who is Bobby and why on earth does everyone REALLY want a hug from him? Oh baby we talking cinematic trilogies?! How the hell did Connor pull off getting Lizzy J to agree to marry him??? Just how many fire new jingles we got queue’d up for Season 4?! What exactly is a celebration of red mud?! Just how far back does Geo’s family lineage of coaches & athletes go? Truth be told? PF Changs?! Berks, recovery slides and crocs, oh my!

This and so much more in this enchanting, uplifting and humorous episode of the PRP!

Explain that Strava section:

Geo's Strava Activity

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Recorded Sunday March 10th @ 12PM EST 

**This episode release was delayed for the past 8 months due to legal reasons. As such, it has been held deep inside the PRP vault, safeguarded by nanners, until now...**

In this special bonusode of the PRP Adam rambles on over to Philadelphia to catch up with dear friend, seasoned ultra runner & post doctoral fellow extraordinaire Mikel Haggadone who has been preparing for the Wakely Dam 55K on July 29th, 2023. Things get immediately vulnerable as Mike shares a detailed and frightening account of a recent accident he was involved in. While attempting to cross the street on the last mile of one of his final training runs heading into race week, Mike was the unfortunate victim of a hit and run accident and was struck by a vehicle going 30 MPH. 

The lads take time to reflect on this horrific accident and use his experience as a catalyst to discuss some of their recent challenges with grief-based mental health hurdles they’ve both been navigating. Although this accident sent Mike to the emergency room and has forced him to make the tough decision to withdraw from the race, what it can’t take away is his sense of pride, his gratitude for life and his appreciation for his tight knit community who is there to support him, rain or shine. 

The gentlemen then evolve their conversation to the topic of movement in the form of racing vs adventuring. Having both gone through multi-year injury struggles, they’ve both, in independent ways, been forced to reevaluate and reshape their relationships with running. These days, it’s less about fast times and podiums and more about forms of the sport that encompass and allow for the creation of running as form of art, exploration and adventure. 

Just how fucking LAWLESS is Philly?! Trolly say toot toot? Is Mike running ultra marathon’s during government issued heat warnings?! Pizzaterian?! Yep, it’s raining, it's lightening & it's thundering! What’s with Mike’s love affair with hats?? Mail time! Humid nanners?! Bears, canyons & Underoath, oh my! All this and loads more in this ponderous, stoic & bromance-filled episode of the PRP. 

Explain that Strava section:

Mike's Strava Activity

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Recorded Monday July 24th @ 1PM EST 

In the S3 finale of the PRP, Adam colloquiums with stoic road runner, enthusiastic cycling tutee, passionate licensed clinical social worker and all around good vibes ambassador Margaret Levasseur who has been preparing for the Holiday Hustle Half Marathon on December 2nd, 2023. Ustina Shives, hobby jogger extraordinaire, passionate yogi and ardent licensed professional counselor joins the show to discuss all things running, Margaret and therapy. 

Margaret and Ustina provide the PRP listenership with a masterclass on the significance of mental health and utilizing therapy as a well for wellness whilst exploring what it really means to be your authentic self. From our athletic endeavors, to our social relationships and beyond, the further we stray from our authentic selves the more we will collectively struggle with our own mental well-being. 

Things get vulnerable when Margaret opens up and shares intimate detail about how she has leveraged running as an outlet for grief recently. With the tragic loss of her father in March of 2023, Margaret details how the past few months have been very different for her and discusses the adjustments she has been forced to make in every single aspect of her life. Although overcome at times with emotion due to the harsh realities that have been thrown her way this year, Margaret provides some encouraging anecdotes about how her, her mom and her sister are facing these hardships together, and approaching the mourning and healing processes as a team. 

We bringing BOGO back?! Who is the Duchess of DeWitt?? What exactly does it mean to keep your heart open in hell? God damnit, who left the fridge plugged in?! iPod nano??? Ohhh the files are INSIDE the computer!! Ummm, is there any chance you could change the soap dispenser another time sir?! Is feeling, healing? Oh baby baby, we talkin Wolf Parade?! We ouchea gentle frecklin’ ya’ll!

All of this, and so much more in this healing, inspiring and therapeutic episode of the PRP! 

Explain that Strava section:

Margaret's "Strava" Activity

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Long Run Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Recorded Wednesday November 29th @ 5:30PM EST 

In S3Ep16 of the PRP, Adam breaks bread with blossoming long distance runner, inspiring community builder, ardent charitable fund raiser and immensely proud papa bear Ernest Holly who has been preparing for the New York City Marathon on Sunday November 5th, 2023.

Ern shares the tale of his humble beginnings with the sport and sheds light on the amalgamation of events that lead him to lace up for the first time. A combination of an eye-opening doctor appointment coupled with a global pandemic were enough to kickstart his evolution; but the real changes occurred when he began to be more mindful about what he was putting in his body from a dietary perspective. For Ern, running has served as the genesis for more lifestyle changes than he can even keep track of. From exercise, to a healthy diet, to community, to self confidence and beyond, Ern discusses the spring board the sport has provided him with and shares some inspiring anecdotes about how his efforts are starting to rub off on those around him. 

Things get vulnerable when Ern provides the PRP listenership with a masterclass on the human experience. For the first time in his life, through immersing himself fully in the process of training for a race, Ern experienced self empowerment on a level that he had never felt before. From I gotta do this, to I want to do this, to what’s next come at me! In Ern’s book, everyone everywhere deserves to feel this euphoric sense of accomplishment in some way, shape or form at some point in life. 

Yooo we up in the house that Joe Robinson built for this one?! Is Ern working hard to be a #dancedad?! Is Tommie gonna get em’ to the starting line on time?! Is Ern out here just paying it forward?? Push Start Running, say whaaa? Is Ern a romantic? What’s the best way to change your life?! Who is Anna and why is she such a boss?!? Sons of Anarchy?? Appreciation for the written work? Philosophy, nanners and PR’s oh my!

This, and so much more in this empowering, encouraging and inspiring episode of the PRP. 

Explain that Strava section:

Ern's Strava Activity #1

Ern's Strava Activity #2

Sponsors

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Long Run Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Recorded Monday October 30th @ 12PM EST