#41 - This is a great conversation with a well respected, veteran podcasting crew. We met Tommy and India through a discussion we were invited to in September of 2020. That discussion brought together podcasters from around the world to discuss the importance of inclusion and diversity in our sport.
Before we get into the episode notes, I want to just take a few minutes to talk about something that's on my mind:
As an Asian American male, I've often felt uncomfortable speaking out on matters of inclusion and diversity. I'm still learning about the challenges and struggles that my partner and so many in the African American community have had to deal with due to systemic racism. My approach has been to listen, uncover the stories, and amplify them.
But recently, there has been an unsettling number of hate crimes towards Asians - including a recent incident in Atlanta. And there was a heinous crime in Boulder, Colorado just this week - in the same city where I went to college and a few blocks from where I lived. While the motives are unclear, what is obvious is that these violent crimes have become all too prevalent.
For too long, we've had powerful leaders, media outlets, and social media algorithms that have capitalized on hate. They amplify it and funnel it to fuel their own agenda.
That's why it's more important than ever to be intentional when building communities. We all have an obligation to be inclusive, to make sure our clubs, organizations, and teams are diverse. We're so fortunate as runners to be able to bond over a common love for the sport, and the appreciation for the hard work that it takes to get over the finish line. I'm so fortunate to partner with Bertrand - because you can see the diversity and enthusiasm that his group Too Legit naturally carries.
That's why at RaceMob, we're not so focused on bringing in "high ticket" sales or attracting "affluent" market segments. We're intent on inspiring health and fitness to everyone, but it's especially important that we bring health, wellness, and hope to those who need it. Especially those who don't know where to start.
We've seen how it's impacted our lives, not only our health, mental acuity, and confidence, but especially the emotional benefits of having a strong community.
Ok, thank you for listening to this important tangent, and now for the notes.
You're going to love this incredible conversation with the Run Duo Podcast.
We dive into the Publix Atlanta races - yes, real live races!
We chat about the importance of diversity and important steps that we're seeing towards inclusion, India breaks down her recent experience getting coaching certified and the unique program she's coaching with, plus dive into some podcasting tips from these industry veterans. All of the show notes can be found online at racemob.com/podcast