Running Around Charlotte

Ordinarily here on the program, we’re talking to runners about THEIR unique journey, and how running has impacted, influenced, or otherwise shaped their lives. And that’s great! 

On this episode, we’ve got some big news that’s going to not only impact runners… but RUNNING around Charlotte itself. (See what I did there?)

I’m not even overselling when I say this may be one of the biggest stories in running – or at least for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon – in 20 years. 

And we’ve got Miller Yoho, director of communications and marketing for the Charlotte Sports Foundation here in the studio on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. 

Charlotte Sports Foundation: https://charlottesports.org 

Miller Yoho: [email protected] 

We’ve said this a thousand times on this program: every runner out there has a story; their  “why” that gets them out there logging those miles, pushing the pace, hitting the starting line.

In that respect, this week’s guest isn’t much different from the rest of us. 

Fact is, Matt Nolan isn’t the first person to use running in an effort to pay it forward. He’s not the first guy to leverage his network to reach a lofty fundraising goal. He’s not even the first one to turn a very personal tragedy into motivation for a very public goal. 

But it’s the genuine place of gratitude that all this effort is coming from that let me know I had to have him on the show. And, yes – running and run clubs have everything to do with the fine mess he’s gotten himself into now! Here’s Matt Nolan on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. 

Fundraising page w/story: https://www.givengain.com/project/matt-raising-funds-for-the-leukemia-and-lymphoma-society-massachusetts-chapter-111113

My *personal* reflection on Mom: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18AxBFzctx/

Mom’s formal obituary: https://www.sytsemafh.com/obituaries/bonnie-nolan/obituary

Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/40444994

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattnolan1/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattnolan93/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthew.john.nolan

On this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, we’re talking about one of the cornerstones of the local running community — the Charlotte Running Club.

The Charlotte Running Club has been connecting runners of all paces and backgrounds for years; building friendships, fitness, and a true sense of belonging here. And leading that organization these days is club president Rebeca Ehrnrooth.

Like many of our listeners, Rebeca has only been in Charlotte for a few years. And, like so many folks, she used running to discover her new hometown. We talk about what’s changed in those few short years, and the club’s plans to grow along with the city itself.

Today on Running Around Charlotte, we’re joined by someone who is rewriting the rules of “urban exploring” here in Charlotte. Tim Reitz is the founder of MuralTours704. He’s a running-enthusiast turned community connector who blends two passions: movement and appreciating street art.

Tim leads guided running and walking tours around Charlotte that highlight the city’s remarkable murals. He’s getting folks out of the gym, off their usual running paths, and onto streets and alleys where art and local culture intersect.

Tim, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! 

Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast…  and today I’m thrilled to turn the tables on my man, Nick Sturdivant, anchor and reporter at WCNC here in Charlotte. Nick isn’t just a good-looking guy —he’s about to tackle his first half marathon here at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon this Saturday. 

Full disclosure, we did talk a little earlier this week when he had us over at HIS studio, so I’ve got a little inside scoop here … but it is fair to say he’s learned a thing or two about the Charlotte running community, and himself – as he’s prepared for tomorrow’s event. Nick, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! 

Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, recorded LIVE here at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. On the eve of the big event, it’s only fitting that we’re joined by Myles Wynn, Team Hemby’s leading man…  and Dani Smith, the Philanthropy Manager for the Novant Health Foundation.

Myles and Dani, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!

Our guest today is someone who has taken “running around Charlotte” quite literally. Mark Feldpausch and his daughter, Mira, took on something a little bigger — running every single street in the City of Charlotte.

What started as a father-daughter project has become an exploration of the Queen City few people will ever experience. From cul-de-sacs to service roads, hidden neighborhoods to city landmarks, Mark and Mira are seeing Charlotte block by block — on foot — and documenting the journey along the way.

Welcome back to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, LIVE from the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. Today I’ve got some of my favorite folks in the running community on the program with us: Brian Mister and Lisa Landrum. 

They the folks behind the Around the Crown 10K, the Noda 5k, and now Charlotte RaceFest. They are all about celebrating Charlotte’s runners, sustainability and the community partnerships … all the stuff that brings us together. If you’ve ever wondered if a single local race can foster community and purpose… sit tight, kids. Answers coming your way. Brian and Lisa, welcome BACK to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!

As we have said many times on this program, for every runner at the start line, there’s a story there, too. When Kristine Nunn told us why she was running this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, we knew we had to learn more. Not going to lie… her special bond with her niece had us a little choked-up. But, we didn’t expect to hear how their relationship had changed over the years, even with all the miles between them. We’ve got a real treat for you here on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.

Marathon Update: In case you’re wondering, Kristine finished this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon in 5:03:26. She told us she loved seeing the different parts of the city along the route, and of her 9 previous marathons, she said Charlotte’s crowd and city energy are the top of her list. And yes, she had a great time with her niece — hitting the museums and the Hornets game, too. Sounds like a heck of a weekend, Kristine!

On this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, we’re talking with Robert Griffith, who’ll be taking on the 2025 Novant Health Charlotte half marathon. It’s a journey that started last fall, when he read a quote that was quite literally life-changing. To say that he’s transformed himself is to put it lightly. Whether you’re running or not, we believe you’ll be inspired by his story, too!